started · updated
Laura Sarabia charged with abuse of power in Colombian polygraph scandal
The Colombian Prosecutor's Office has formally charged former foreign minister and chief of staff Laura Sarabia with abuse of public function, aggravated illegal coercion, and embezzlement by use. The charges stem from a 2023 incident where Sarabia allegedly used state resources and security personnel to subject her nanny, Marelbys Meza, to a polygraph test. This occurred following the reported disappearance of a suitcase containing a significant sum of cash from Sarabia's Bogotá residence.
During the hearing in Bogotá, Sarabia rejected all charges and declared her innocence, effectively closing the possibility of a plea agreement. The prosecution contends that Sarabia exceeded her official authority by using institutional tools to investigate a private matter. Defense attorney Mario Iguarán has challenged the charges, arguing that polygraph tests were a standard and recurring practice within the Presidency.
Marelbys Meza has described the experience as an “inferno,” noting that she faced verbal threats and illegal phone interceptions during the investigation. She also stated that she has not received any financial compensation for the damages incurred. The legal process is expected to proceed to the trial stage.
Entities
Bogotá · Fiscalía General de la Nación · Gustavo Petro · Laura Sarabia · Marelbys Meza · Mario Iguarán · Presidencia de la República de Colombia
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The prosecution alleges Sarabia acted as a determinator in the embezzlement by charge, allowing others to use public assets. diariodelcauca.com.co
- [● 7 SOURCES] The Prosecutor's Office charged Laura Sarabia with abuse of public function, aggravated illegal coercion, and embezzlement by use. www.boyacadigital.com · diarioriente.com · risaraldahoy.com · rionoticias.co · www.eje21.com.co · +2 more
- [● 3 SOURCES] Sarabia allegedly used her position and state resources to order a polygraph test for Marelbys Meza. diarioriente.com · risaraldahoy.com · www.eje21.com.co
- [● 3 SOURCES] Laura Sarabia rejected the charges and declared her innocence. diarioriente.com · risaraldahoy.com · www.lasillavacia.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Marelbys Meza stated she has not received any compensation for the damages caused by the situation. www.colombia.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Defense attorney Mario Iguarán argued that polygraph tests were a normal and recurring practice within the Presidency. www.boyacadigital.com