A 39-year-old Cuban citizen has tragically passed away in Paraguay, just days after being detained. His family and attorney are calling it a case of extreme police brutality. This incident, marked by violence, threats, and neglect, has sparked outrage and demands for justice.
Reinier José Peña, who had been residing in Paraguay for nine years, was arrested in early August in Asunción, accused of attempting to steal items from a service station. According to his partner, Yaquelin Pérez, and the family attorney, María Fausta Ramírez, in statements to ABC Color Paraguay, Peña was beaten by at least five police officers at the National Police's Judicial Department. He was then taken to a hospital and later transferred to Tacumbú prison, where he died.
Allegations of Abuse and Neglect
Pérez shared with the show Temprano a la Tarde Paraguay that the violence began on August 2 over a meal issue. "They told him that was not for them to eat, that they ate like people, but prisoners ate like pigs," she recounted. Officers allegedly assaulted him repeatedly, resulting in a dislocated shoulder, painful ribs, bruises on his back, a battered knee, and frequent convulsions, as he was epileptic. Pérez also claimed that the police threatened Peña to keep quiet about the incident. "They told him not to say anything because it would be worse for him," she said.
The Tragic Timeline
On August 5, Peña was admitted to the Hospital de Barrio Obrero, where he remained until Friday, August 8, when he was discharged and sent directly to Tacumbú Penitentiary. On Sunday, August 10, Pérez attempted to visit him, but friends who arrived earlier were informed of his death. "They didn't see him in the halls or anywhere. That's when they learned he had died," Pérez narrated.
A preliminary autopsy report cited by ABC Paraguay noted bruises and abrasions on Peña's body, though the exact cause of death awaits further examination. Attorney Ramírez declared the case a stain on Paraguay's international image and announced plans for legal action to review security footage and hold those responsible accountable. "We are in a democratic country where torture should be eradicated," she asserted, vowing to seek justice for Peña's death.
Police Account
Commissioner Walter Molinas, head of the Judicial Department, denied that Peña was assaulted by officers during his stay. Speaking to Temprano a la Tarde Paraguay, he claimed Peña arrived with a medical certificate, was hospitalized for "withdrawal syndrome" following alleged drug use, and showed no severe injuries. Molinas mentioned 24-hour security camera footage, stating, "It did not happen as the family claims."
He also referenced a medical diagnosis indicating convulsive syndrome, withdrawal syndrome, and pneumonia caused by bronchoaspiration. Molinas confirmed an internal investigation will be launched and expressed hope that the autopsy will support the police's version of events.
The Paraguayan Public Ministry has initiated an investigation to uncover the truth. The stark contrast between the family's allegations and the police's narrative keeps the case under intense scrutiny. While the attorney insists it was an act of torture that must be addressed, the police maintain that medical and video evidence refute the beating allegations. The final autopsy results and security footage review could determine whether Peña's death was due to police abuse or medical issues related to his health condition.
Key Questions About the Incident
What were the allegations against Reinier José Peña?
Reinier José Peña was accused of attempting to steal items from a service station in Asunción, Paraguay.
What injuries did Peña reportedly suffer?
Peña reportedly suffered a dislocated shoulder, painful ribs, bruises on his back, a battered knee, and frequent convulsions.
What is the police's stance on the allegations?
The police denied any assault, claiming Peña was hospitalized for withdrawal syndrome and had no severe injuries, supported by 24-hour security footage.
What actions are being taken to investigate Peña's death?
The Paraguayan Public Ministry has opened an investigation, and an internal police inquiry is expected, pending autopsy results and video evidence review.