Introduction of Iniative for a Comprehensive Anti-Extortion Law
Mexico City’s Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo has submitted an initiative to the Chamber of Deputies proposing a draft decree for the General Law to Prevent, Investigate, and Sanction Crimes Related to Extortion.
Background and Context
This initiative is part of a constitutional reform approved in September, granting the Congress of the Union the necessary constitutional powers to enact comprehensive legislation on extortion. The aim is to standardize the penal type and its penalties.
Relevance of Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo serves as the Head of Government (Mayor) of Mexico City, making her a significant figure in Mexican politics. Her proposal reflects her commitment to addressing crime and ensuring the safety of city residents.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Law
The proposed law aims to equip authorities at all levels of government with adequate legal tools to effectively prevent extortion, employ specific investigation techniques tailored to the unique nature of this crime.
- Penalties: The law proposes prison sentences ranging from six to fifteen years and fines of one hundred to five hundred times the daily value of the Unit of Measurement and Update (UMAC).
- Agravating Factors: Special attention is given to cases involving the collection of “piso” (protection money), targeting migrants, minors, or when perpetrated by a public servant.
- Offense Reporting: The law elevates the Strategic Plan for Prevention and Combat of Extortion (number 089) to legal status, allowing victims to file anonymous complaints without revealing their identity.
- Protection Measures: The law emphasizes the implementation of protective and assistive measures for victims, witnesses, and complainants. It also encourages efficient collaboration among institutions to enhance the fight against extortion.
- No Pre-trial Release: Sentenced individuals will not have access to pre-trial release or plea bargaining, except in exceptional cases of substantial cooperation with justice.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of this proposed law? The primary goal is to establish a comprehensive legal framework for preventing, investigating, and sanctioning extortion crimes in Mexico.
- Who proposed this law? The initiative was submitted by Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the Mayor of Mexico City.
- What are the proposed penalties for extortion? The law suggests prison sentences between six and fifteen years, along with fines ranging from one hundred to five hundred times the UMAC.
- How does this law protect victims? The proposed law emphasizes protective and assistive measures for victims, witnesses, and complainants. It also encourages efficient collaboration among institutions to enhance the fight against extortion.
- Can victims report extortion anonymously? Yes, the law elevates the Strategic Plan for Prevention and Combat of Extortion (number 089) to legal status, allowing victims to file anonymous complaints without revealing their identity.
