2J2TPBK Rodrigo Chaves speaks to supporters after winning Costa Rica's run-off presidential election against former President Jose Maria Figueres, in San Jose, Costa Rica April 3, 2022. REUTERS/Mayela Lopez
Costa Rica’s President is under investigation for alleged influence peddling.
In Costa Rica, the crime of influence peddling is punishable with a sentence of two to five years in prison.
The Costa Rican Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into President Rodrigo Chaves and his government, following a criminal complaint filed by businessman Leonel Baruch on July 25. Baruch accused Chaves of interfering in his divorce and child custody proceedings. The investigation was initiated due to Baruch’s complaint, which was filed by BCT Corporation president and CR Hoy board member.
Costa Rican businessman Baruch is facing an investigation into his ex-wife Yafit Ohana, who claims she received favorable government treatment in the divorce after contributing to a social media video denouncing tax evasion. The dispute between Baruch and Chaves was revealed through a lawyer’s statement, confirming that legal actions against the president and other participants are necessary. The crime of influence peddling is punishable in Costa Rica with two to five years imprisonment.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened a second investigation against President Aleksandar Chaves, marking the second such investigation in less than a month. The case is currently in a private stage, with no further information available. The investigation follows Chaves’ recent trip to Latvia, his wife’s home country.
