The prosecution in the corruption case against Samuel Moreno asked the judge Tuesday to jail the suspended Bogota mayor while awaiting trial, claiming if he remains free he might escape, interfere with evidence or continue committing crimes.
The prosecutor claimed Moreno was a high escape risk because he is a U.S citizen, as he was born in Miami.
He argued that if the court set him free they could not be sure he would attend future hearings. Moreno has already missed two hearings, claiming he was not prepared as he had recently sacked his lawyer.
The court also heard there was a risk Moreno would interfere with evidence and try to influence witnesses.
According to prosecutors, Moreno’s continuing proximity to witnesses from the Institute of Urban Development (IDU) and contractors would give him the opportunity to tamper with evidence.
Finally, the prosecutor argued that freeing Moreno would allow him the opportunity to “continue stealing”, saying that white-collar criminals have the resources to continue committing crime.
The hearing is still in session with the defense making its case as to why Moreno should be freed.
On Monday, Moreno was formally charged with fraudulent contracting, embezzlement and extortion for his role in the Bogota public works scandal.
Moreno was suspended from his post as Bogota mayor in early May by Inspector General Alejandro Ordoñez, after alleged irregularities in the awarding of public works contracts to the Nule Group construction firm, who have also been indicted.