Teresa Padrón reacted with frustration and resignation to the postponement of Damian Valdes-Galloso's court hearing, which had been scheduled for this Thursday, to over a month later.
The deadline for the only accused in the homicide of El Taiger has been postponed to January 29, 2025.
"It wasn't what we were expecting; this process is taking a lot longer, but we know it will be for the justice of José and his family. The date has been changed for next month because the grand jury is on vacation," stated Teresa, a friend and manager of the artist, during a live broadcast.
Although the hearing was postponed for more than a month, Teresa emphasized that she will remain attentive to the case in order to demand justice for José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar.
"Stay tuned, we will be here, we will not back down, we will continue going to court, and with God's grace, everything will be resolved soon. We believe this trial will take a while, so we ask for everyone's patience and we will keep you updated," he stated.
In her Instagram stories, Teresa reiterated her determination to seek justice for El Taiger until the end.
"Even if the court only lasts a few seconds and even if it takes five years, I will always be there for you, representing you. I will always stand up for you because, while many believe that being in court for just a few seconds doesn’t matter, they are completely mistaken. Our presence does put pressure on the court; it truly makes a significant difference. Our presence is very important, and that’s why we will always be there!" he wrote.
"Thank you very much to everyone who came today from the bottom of my heart; I appreciate it, and I know that José does too," he added.
During Thursday's session, the prosecution requested Judge Milton Hirsch to postpone the hearing due to the grand jury's recess for the winter season.
"Your Honor, the grand jury is currently in recess for the winter season, and we would like to request a new hearing date for January 29," the prosecution stated, as reported by Telemundo 51.
The defense, represented by public attorney Annette Gómez, raised no objections to the request.
Expectations of the followers and friends of El Taiger
The hearing generated significant anticipation among the followers and associates of El Taiger, as there was an expectation that the grand jury would decide on a request from the prosecution to increase Damian's charge from second-degree murder to first-degree murder.
However, this decision will have to wait until the next hearing.
Although Valdez Galloso was not present at the hearing, several friends, musicians, and fans of El Taiger attended court to show their support.
Among them, the Cuban reggaeton artist Poppi expressed, "José was one of my best friends in the genre, and what we want is justice."
For his part, Jeffery Jarqui, a follower of the singer, added: "We will not stop and we will exhaust all resources to seek justice."
On November 27, it was revealed that the Prosecutor's Office informed the artist's former manager that they would upgrade the charges against Damián Valdez-Galloso from second-degree murder to first-degree murder.
In early December, the Miami-Dade Prosecutor's Office announced that it would present this request to a grand jury. There is a difference between a trial jury and a grand jury; the latter does not determine guilt or innocence but only whether there is enough evidence to bring charges.
Frequently Asked Questions about the homicide case of El Taiger and the extension of the hearing for Damián Valdez-Galloso
Why was the hearing for Damián Valdez-Galloso postponed?
Damián Valdez-Galloso's hearing has been postponed because the grand jury is on holiday for Christmas. This situation has caused frustration and discontent among El Taiger's followers, as they were expecting the legal proceedings to continue without interruptions.
What charges is Damián Valdez-Galloso facing?
Damián Valdez-Galloso faces second-degree murder charges, tampering with evidence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. However, the Prosecutor's Office has announced its intention to elevate the charge to first-degree murder, which could increase the severity of the penalty if he is found guilty.
What does Teresa Padrón expect from the judicial process?
Teresa Padrón hopes that justice will be served for El Taiger and his family. The former manager of the reggaeton artist has been actively demanding that Damián Valdez-Galloso be charged with first-degree murder and is determined to continue attending the hearings to ensure that justice is achieved.
How has the community reacted to the case of El Taiger?
The community, particularly the followers of El Taiger, has reacted by demanding justice and supporting a petition for signatures. This mobilization aims to push for the charge against Valdez-Galloso to be escalated to first-degree murder, reflecting the significant impact that El Taiger's death has had on his community and on Cuban urban music.
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