Peru: Murder suspect released after preventive detention expires

José Miguel Espí González, the primary suspect accused of murdering plastic surgeon Carlos Antonio Mendo Castillo, has regained his freedom following the expiration of a nine-month preventive detention period.

According to police investigations, Espí González allegedly confessed to his involvement in the February 2025 crime, stating he paid 3,800 soles to a Colombian citizen to carry out the killing for economic motives related to the victim's bank accounts.

The victim's family has criticized the judicial delays within the Lima East Superior Court of Justice, noting that the investigation was concluded by the Prosecutor's Office in September 2025, yet legal proceedings remained stalled for months. There are calls to investigate Judge Pilar Noemí Aguinaga López regarding the delays. Although a capture order remains active, Espí González has not been located since his release on August 24, leading to fears that he may flee the country.