Authorities in Santiago de Cuba held several exemplary trials in the past month to curb the increase in crime in the province, official media reported.
The Municipal People's Tribunal of Songo-La Maya, in Santiago de Cuba, has carried out four exemplary trials in response to a request from the Supreme People's Tribunal to "reinforce prevention and education in the community through judicial transparency," reported the official newspaper Sierra Maestra.
The Master's in Sciences Geovanis Mestre Herrera, a Senior Judge of the Provincial People's Court of Santiago de Cuba, explained that exemplary trials aim to ensure public participation and educate about the legal consequences of certain criminal behaviors, as part of a general prevention strategy.
Among the cases handled, two involved attacks against law enforcement agents, and the other two focused on the illegal slaughter of livestock and meat trafficking, a problem that has had a considerable impact on the local economy and food security, according to the regime.
An cited example was that of an individual arrested while transporting cattle meat illegally on public transport.
The newspaper stated that "the trials were characterized by their strict adherence to due process," where the defendants had legal representation and the opportunity to defend themselves.
"Likewise, that sanctions were applied in accordance with what is established by Cuban law."
The regime defends that these trials aim not only to punish but also to deter the commission of future crimes by publicly demonstrating the consequences of illegal actions.
The initiative arises after the government itself recognized the concerning increase in crime on the island during the first half of 2024.
Last February, several exemplary trials were held in the capital of the country, one of them for the murderer of a peasant and dismemberer of cows, who was sentenced to life imprisonment.
Especially in Santiago de Cuba, there has been a reported increase in crime, violent robberies, and assaults in the streets, many of which were observed during last month's carnivals.
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