Valencia courts open trials of political figures for alleged speech crimes
The Tribunal de Instancia de Valencia has opened oral trials in two separate cases involving political speech. A 21‑year‑old was charged with public insults against former Valencian regional president Carlos Mazón after posting a derogatory message on the social network X. Prosecutors have requested a fine of €3,000 and a ten‑month daily sanction of €10.
In a separate proceeding, Vicent Mascarell, the secretary of organization for the Valencian socialist party (PSPV), faces a criminal trial for alleged calumny against the People’s Party (PP) following a vandalism attack on a socialist headquarters. The prosecution seeks one year of imprisonment and €10,000 in civil damages for moral injury. Both cases are being heard in the same Valencia court and involve accusations of defamation or insult directed at political leaders.