New Trial Begins for Néstor Pavón in Micaela García Femicide Case
The accused claims innocence while co-defendant Sebastián Wagner provides detailed testimony of his involvement.
1Resumed Judicial Proceedings
The trial regarding the 2017 femicide of 21-year-old student Micaela García has officially resumed in Entre Ríos. This legal process follows a complex nine-year history involving multiple court rulings, including a 2024 Supreme Court order to conduct a new oral trial to re-evaluate the role of Néstor Pavón in the crime.
2Defendant Claims Innocence
Néstor Pavón, 45, testified before judges Santiago Brugo, Nicolás Gazali, and Maximiliano Otto Larocca Rees, asserting his innocence. He claimed he was unfairly targeted by both the justice system and society, stating he had to relocate to Santiago del Estero to start a new life while awaiting the final verdict.
3Contradictory Statements on Gender
During questioning by prosecutor Maite Burruchaga, Pavón faced scrutiny regarding his views on women. He argued that a wife attending to her husband is an act of love rather than slavery. This exchange highlighted the defense's attempt to frame his character while addressing the prosecution's focus on his underlying behavioral patterns.
4Wagner's Direct Accusation
Sebastián Wagner, already serving a life sentence for the murder, testified against Pavón. Wagner alleged that they both pursued García in a Renault 18 Break, forced her into the vehicle, and sexually assaulted her. He claimed Pavón actively participated in the abduction, the subsequent strangulation, and the concealment of her body.
5Disputed Vehicle Ownership
A central point of contention involves the Renault 18 Break used during the abduction. While Pavón now claims the vehicle belonged solely to Wagner, he previously stated he provided the funds for his employee to purchase it. This contradiction remains a critical focus for the prosecution during the current oral proceedings.
6Witnesses and Evidence
The court heard testimony from various witnesses, including neighbor Nancy Zárate, who reported hearing cries for help and finding a sandal belonging to the victim. Additionally, rural resident María de Naday testified to seeing a vehicle traveling at high speed through the area, corroborating elements of the timeline presented by the prosecution.
7Defense Strategy and Alibi
Pavón’s defense team presented his ex-wife and son to support his alibi, claiming he was asleep at the time of the crime. They maintained that he was unaware of Wagner's actions, characterizing himself as a victim of circumstance who simply employed a man he now describes as a monster.
8Impact of the Verdict
This trial represents a significant moment for the family of Micaela García, who seek finality after years of legal delays. The outcome will determine if Pavón is held accountable as a co-author of the femicide, potentially altering the legal consequences of a case that has deeply affected the Argentine public since 2017.
Original article: Clarín — New Trial Begins for Néstor Pavón in Micaela García Femicide Case