Tags: LT | Guatemala | Justice

Guatemalans Fear Bill Will Replace Sentences with Fines

Guatemalans Fear Bill Will Replace Sentences with Fines

Thursday, 14 September 2017 05:39 PM EDT

GUATEMALA CITY (AP) — Guatemala's human rights prosecutor has asked the country's highest court to block legislation approved by congress that could replace prison sentences of 10 years with fines.

Prosecutor Jordan Rodas said Thursday the legislation represented a danger to the public. President Jimmy Morales said he would study the bill and veto it if it appeared harmful.

Legislators apparently meant just to reduce punishments for illegal campaign financing when they approved the bill Wednesday. Morales is accused of illicit campaign financing.

The bill reduces sentences for the charge from 12 to 10 years, and stipulates those convicted could pay a fine instead of serving time.

But prosecutors say that leaves open the possibility that people convicted of crimes like extortion, robbery or manslaughter might also be able to pay fines.

© Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


TheAmericas
Guatemala's human rights prosecutor has asked the country's highest court to block legislation approved by congress that could replace prison sentences of 10 years with fines.Prosecutor Jordan Rodas said Thursday the legislation represented a danger to the public. President...
LT,Guatemala,Justice
131
2017-39-14
Thursday, 14 September 2017 05:39 PM
Newsmax Media, Inc.

Sign up for Newsmax’s Daily Newsletter

Receive breaking news and original analysis - sent right to your inbox.

(Optional for Local News)
Privacy: We never share your email address.
Join the Newsmax Community
Read and Post Comments
Please review Community Guidelines before posting a comment.
 
 
TOP

Newsmax, Moneynews, Newsmax Health, and Independent. American. are registered trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc. Newsmax TV, and Newsmax World are trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc.

NEWSMAX.COM
© Newsmax Media, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
NEWSMAX.COM
© Newsmax Media, Inc.
All Rights Reserved