María Felicia Jiménez Lavie, a Cuban nuclear engineer and professor at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), has publicly accused her husband, Víctor Rodríguez Padilla, the former general director of the state-owned company Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex), of physical assault and ongoing violence. She has requested protective measures from the authorities.
The allegations came to light on June 25 through a video shared on social media, showing Rodríguez Padilla attacking Jiménez Lavie on March 15, 2026. The incident occurred in a home located in Emiliano Zapata, Morelos, with their five-year-old son present.
At the time of the incident, Rodríguez Padilla was still serving as the head of Pemex.
Jiménez Lavie released the video along with a plea for help directed at Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, according to EFE news agency. "At home, a high-ranking government official hits his wife. Speaking out means losing my job, my income, my home, and my children, simply because of his connections with the presidency," she lamented, adding, "Anything that happens to me or my children is Víctor Rodríguez Padilla's fault. Help, President."
President Sheinbaum, questioned by the press about the matter, stated she was aware of the situation and assured that the victim would receive "all necessary assistance."
Patterns of Abuse and Coercion
Jiménez Lavie told Aristegui Noticias that the violence began around 2022. "It started with verbal insults, then slaps, pushes, but this time it was particularly brutal; I had severe pain for days after," she recounted.
She further alleged that her husband leveraged his position and her immigration status to exert control, threatening to take custody of their children or have her deported to Cuba.
Obstacles and Ongoing Threats
Following the video's release, Jiménez Lavie faced additional challenges: her phone lines were blocked, and her first social media account used to share the video was suspended. "I realized just 10 minutes ago that they've completely blocked me. I cannot make or receive calls. If they cut off my internet, I'm entirely isolated and defenseless," she warned.
She noted that she still lacked physical protection and needed assistance to leave her current residence, along with psychological support for her children. "I haven't seen any protection yet. I need to move out of this rented home and require psychological help, especially for my two children," she explained.
The couple's young son witnessed the recorded assault and subsequently displayed aggressive behavior at school. The school's psychologist informed Jiménez Lavie of the issue.
Legal Proceedings and Public Reaction
On Friday, Morelos State's Attorney General's Office announced the launch of an investigation into the "potential criminal acts stemming from the disclosure of a video showing violence against a woman," involving "the alleged involvement of a former federal official."
The office also communicated with Mexico's Secretariat of Women to ensure the victim received necessary protection guarantees. "The current administration of the Morelos Prosecutor's Office reiterates its commitment to thoroughly investigate and determine responsibilities," the official statement declared.
The Secretariat of Women condemned the acts and called for the case to be investigated with a gender perspective. "It's crucial for this secretariat that any act of violence against a woman is addressed, investigated, and punished," they stated.
Rodríguez Padilla issued a statement announcing his resignation from any public duties to face the proceedings as a private citizen, citing the presumption of innocence and requesting discretion for his family's well-being.
Employment and Economic Vulnerability
The case has also sparked controversy regarding Rodríguez Padilla's employment status. President Sheinbaum had previously announced in May that he would lead the National Institute of Electricity and Clean Energies (INEEL), and the institute introduced him as its general director on June 3. However, the Secretariat of Energy clarified on June 26 that this appointment "was never formalized."
Jiménez Lavie teaches at UNAM's Faculty of Engineering and other institutions, yet she is financially dependent on her husband, exacerbating her vulnerability. She requested that the investigation proceed without favoritism: "Do not support him, out of respect for women, the law must do what is right and necessary, and he should be punished like anyone else."
According to SDPNoticias, Jiménez Lavie pursued a master's and a doctorate in engineering at UNAM, specializing in energy. She taught in Cuba and, upon arriving in Mexico, has lectured at the Military School of Engineers, UNAM's Faculty of Engineering, and the Polytechnic University of the State of Morelos (Upemor).
The media outlet stated that she and Rodríguez Padilla married on October 18, 2024, and share two young children.
Understanding the Legal and Social Implications
What actions have been taken by the authorities following the allegations?
The Morelos State Attorney General's Office has initiated an investigation into the alleged criminal acts depicted in the video. They are working alongside the Secretariat of Women to ensure protection for the victim.
What challenges is Jiménez Lavie facing following her public allegations?
Jiménez Lavie has faced blocked phone lines, suspended social media accounts, and remains without physical protection. She also requires financial independence and psychological support for her children.
How has Rodríguez Padilla responded to the accusations?
Rodríguez Padilla has stepped down from public roles to address the legal proceedings privately, asserting his right to presumption of innocence and requesting discretion for family welfare.