Loan Danilo Peña trial continues in Corrientes as family testimonies reveal new details

The federal oral trial over the disappearance of five‑year‑old Loan Danilo Peña in the town of 9 de Julio, Corrientes Province, entered its eighth and ninth hearings in July 2026. Witnesses included the child's maternal uncle Miguel Ángel Noguera, cousin Diego “Huevo” Peña and Roque Valeriano Noguera, who described the first hours of the search, the discovery of footprints in the mud and photographs taken at the scene.

Key testimonies were given by Loan’s aunts – police sergeant Gabina Valeria Noguera and her sister Lidia Isabel Noguera – who recounted the police‑led operation ordered by former commissioner Walter Maciel, the handling of a bag of the child’s belongings, and alleged procedural irregularities. Alfonso Benítez, father of accused Antonio Benítez, also testified, denying involvement and highlighting inconsistencies in the clothing shown as evidence.

The prosecution presented a phone call between Laudelina Peña and Gabina Noguera confirming the discovery of the child’s “booty,” and highlighted contradictions in witness statements. The court reprimanded defense lawyer Enzo Di Tella for alleged disrespectful gestures and scheduled a judicial recess until 28 July. The trial continues to focus on alleged kidnapping, evidence tampering and the role of former police officials.