Judge scandal erupts in Argentine D’Agostino corruption case

The criminal case against former provincial justice sub‑secretary Marcelo D’Agostino, accused of gender‑based coercion and illegal possession of a war‑type firearm, has intensified after a judicial dispute surfaced. Judge María Belén Salido formally rejected a recusation request but, in a separate filing, announced her self‑inhibition from the case, alleging unethical conduct by fellow judge Rafael Escot.

According to Salido’s document, Escot supplied a private WhatsApp screenshot from a closed judges’ group that the defense used to support claims of partiality. Escot admitted providing the image, citing a personal friendship with D’Agostino, and alleged that the former sub‑secretary had asked him to monitor negative commentary about him. Salido also reported that Escot tried to pressure other magistrates to collectively inhibit themselves and suggested moving the case to another court. She described Escot’s actions as “incomprehensible” and “immoral,” highlighting a broader pattern of alleged influence‑peddling within the judiciary.