Judge Pedraz issues 48-hour ultimatum to PSOE regarding legal payments

Judge Santiago Pedraz has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the PSOE, demanding a complete list of lawyers, law firms, and consultancies contracted between 2021 and 2025. This follows a lack of response to a previous request made on October 6. The court requires all contracts, invoices, and internal files that justify these payments.

The investigation, often referred to as the ‘cloacas’ (sewers) case, examines whether party funds were diverted to individuals such as Leire Díez through simulated communication services and legal fees. The Civil Guard’s Central Operating Unit (UCO) has already verified transfers exceeding 43,000 euros to Díez via intermediaries. Investigators suspect these payments may have been used to finance maneuvers intended to neutralize judicial proceedings affecting the party and its leadership.

Additionally, the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office has supported the UCO's access to key judicial statements, opposing attempts by suspects to restrict the police from reviewing the case summary. This comes as the investigation expands to include former Venezuelan deputy minister Nervis Villalobos and examines reports of cash payments at the party headquarters.