An investigation into a high-profile case involving former Socialist Leire Díez and entrepreneur Javier Pérez Dolset is ongoing in Madrid. Judge Arturo Zamarreño has decided not to exclude audio recordings made by prosecutor Ignacio Stampa during a meeting with Díez from the case materials. These recordings, lasting over three hours, were made on May 7 and now play a crucial role in probing possible corruption schemes and alleged attempts to pressure law enforcement officials.
The defense argued that using these recordings infringes on Díez’s right to privacy and confidential communication. She claimed she did not recognize her voice on the audio files and believed their inclusion in the case violated her right not to testify against herself. However, the judge determined that the question of whether to exclude such evidence should be decided during the trial, not at the preliminary investigation stage.
Court’s Arguments
In his ruling, the judge noted that it is premature to decide on excluding the audio recordings at this stage. In his view, such matters should be addressed at the start of the trial, when both parties can clearly state their positions and present their evidence. Only then, the judge believes, can the significance and admissibility of each submitted material be objectively evaluated.
The judge emphasized that it will be during the trial that the court will have the opportunity to thoroughly analyze all the circumstances of the case and determine whether the audio recordings meet legal requirements. Until then, the recordings will remain in the case file and may be used as evidence.
Investigation details
The audio recordings were submitted to the court by prosecutor Stampa, who also provided messenger correspondence and notarially certified documents confirming that the meeting took place. The case files also include internal emails from the prosecutor’s office, which indicate that after the media reported the possible involvement of Díez in ‘gray schemes’ among the socialists, the prosecutor cut off contact with her and informed superiors of the situation.
While listening to the recording, the prosecutor directly asks Díez about her role in the party and her ties with former PSOE organization secretary Santos Cerdán. Díez confirms she was his ‘right-hand’ and that she was specifically tasked with clarifying the situation. She stresses that the conversation is confidential and should not leave the office.
Positions of the parties
Leire Díez and Javier Pérez Dolset have been charged with bribery and influence peddling. Díez claims her rights have been violated and that the recordings cannot be used against her. Prosecutor Stampa, however, maintains that the audio recordings and messages confirm a conspiracy and attempts to pressure anti-corruption officials.
Judge Samarreño stated in his ruling that, at this stage of the investigation, he sees no grounds to exclude the evidence. He reminded all parties that a final decision on this matter will be made during the trial itself, when both sides will have the opportunity to present their full arguments.
The Prosecutor’s Role
Ignacio Stampa has become one of the key witnesses in the case. His actions and the materials he provided form the basis of the prosecution. In particular, the prosecutor submitted not only audio recordings to the court, but also WhatsApp correspondence discussing the organization of a meeting, as well as notarized documents verifying the authenticity of the recordings.
The case files also include internal communications from the prosecutor’s office showing that after news reports emerged linking Díez to informal schemes within PSOE, Stampa cut off contact with her and reported the situation to his superiors.
In case you didn’t know, Leire Díez previously held a position in the municipality and was an active member of the PSOE. Javier Pérez Dolset is a well-known entrepreneur who has been named in several high-profile investigations. Prosecutor Ignacio Stampa gained prominence for his work in corruption cases and efforts to combat economic crimes in Madrid. Judge Arturo Samarraño heads Madrid’s ninth investigating court and specializes in cases involving corruption and misconduct among public officials.
