The morning for Koldo García began with a visit to the Supreme Court, where he arrived carrying a large red-and-black bag. Journalists waiting at the entrance couldn’t help but inquire about the contents, hinting at the possibility of him being sent to prison. However, García, former advisor to ex-minister José Luis Ábalos, chose not to give details, offering only an ironic remark.
Nearly four hours later, he left the courthouse with the same bag he had brought. Judge Leopoldo Puente found no grounds to change his pretrial conditions, despite the serious charges García continues to face. The court ruling stated that while the risk of flight cannot be entirely ruled out, it has not reached the level that would warrant pretrial detention.
This was García’s fourth appearance before Judge Puente. This time, he exercised his right not to testify or answer any questions, citing lack of access to the seized electronic devices. His lawyer insisted that without these materials, the defense is at a disadvantage compared to the prosecution. The court, however, rejected this argument, as the investigation is still analyzing the confiscated gadgets.
During the hearing, the anti-corruption prosecutor expressed frustration that García actively communicates with the media but remains silent in court. The defense attorney attributed this to the emotional pressure and public attention surrounding the case, but the judge quickly cut off any discussion unrelated to the core of the proceedings.
Restrictive Measures and New Case Details
The judge conducted a so-called ‘vistilla’—a procedure for reviewing restrictive measures that were imposed back in December 2024. García is still required to surrender his passport, remain in Spain, and regularly report to the court. The prosecution did not push for stricter measures despite new evidence suggesting his involvement in financial dealings with the former Minister of Transport.
Investigators believe that García and his wife covered personal expenses, trips, and gifts without receiving reimbursements from the minister. The prosecutor noted that the new evidence increases suspicions, however, the current measures are sufficient to prevent flight.
Court: Risk Exists, but Is Not Critical
The court’s eight-page decision emphasizes that while the risk of flight has increased due to the severity of potential punishment, there are no grounds for pretrial detention. The judge took into account that since February 2024, García has not violated any court orders and has always appeared when summoned by both the Audiencia Nacional and the Supreme Court.
No risk of repeat offenses or evidence tampering was identified either. Nevertheless, the judge noted that the evidence against García has not only been preserved but also strengthened following recent actions by the Guardia Civil. The case materials mention suspicions of involvement in a criminal organization, influence peddling, bribery, and possibly embezzlement of public funds.
