Trial Set for Spanish First Lady Begoña Gómez on Embezzlement Charges

Judge Juan Carlos Peinado has announced that Begoña Gómez, the wife of the President of the Government, will face trial for alleged embezzlement of public funds. This decision comes as part of an ongoing investigation into the misuse of public resources by public officials. Alongside Gómez, her advisor Cristina Álvarez and Government delegate in Madrid Francisco Martín have also been implicated in these proceedings. The judge has indicated that the case will be tried by a popular jury, given its nature involving public servants. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Saturday, September 27, at 6:00 pm at the judicial headquarters in Madrid. The investigation centers on claims that Gómez improperly utilized an advisor, who was officially hired by Moncloa, for personal gains tied to her role at the Complutense University of Madrid. Evidence supporting this allegation includes emails exchanged during the hiring process, which suggest that the advisor inquired about ongoing financial support for Gómez's university chair from the insurance company Reale. While the collaboration ultimately did not proceed as planned, the emails indicate that they were sent from a personal account, yet were coupled with an official Moncloa address, raising further questions about the legitimacy of the interactions. In a statement made on September 10, Begoña Gómez acknowledged that the advisor provided occasional assistance to help manage her personal and professional responsibilities. She also mentioned that on a few occasions, Álvarez extended exceptional favors, including the sending of emails for her university chair collaborative role. Under the Penal Code, embezzlement charges can lead to a prison sentence of up to six years, illustrating the gravity of the situation surrounding Gómez and her co-defendants. This case, which engages the scrutiny of public opinion, will not only test the legal boundaries of public service but also challenge the transparency expected from officials in Spain. As the preliminary hearing approaches, there will undoubtedly be heightened interest in the proceedings, both from media and citizens alike, who are keen to understand the implications of such charges against a figure so closely tied to the country's leadership. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2