On May 9, 2025, the colectivo Guerreros Buscadores de Jalisco made a significant demand regarding the ongoing legal proceedings against José Ascensión Murguía Santiago, the mayor of Teuchitlán, Jalisco. They urged the judge overseeing the case to remain impartial amid what they described as the "evident politicization" of the process. This plea was articulated in a document submitted in room 3 of the Centro de Justicia Penal Federal de Jalisco in Puente Grande.
The colectivo expressed their deep concern over the political influences that they believe are clouding the judicial process. Their statement highlighted, "We want to express our indignation and deep concern regarding the evident politicization of the ongoing criminal process. It is unacceptable that there are public demonstrations of support for the accused, despite the existence of compelling evidence linking him directly to the charges against him." This assertion underscores the gravity of the allegations facing Murguía Santiago.
In March 2025, Guerreros Buscadores de Jalisco brought to light disturbing revelations about forced disappearances, forced recruitment, and the training of hitmen at the Rancho Izaguirre in Teuchitlán. These revelations have been pivotal in shaping the current legal landscape surrounding the mayor's case.
As the hearing began on May 9, a crowd gathered outside the federal courtroom in Puente Grande, showing their support for the mayor. Supporters brandished signs proclaiming messages like "Libertad para Chon," "Chon es inocente," and "Queremos pruebas," which translates to "Freedom for Chon," "Chon is innocent," and "We want proof." This public display reflects the polarized views surrounding the mayor's situation.
According to investigations conducted by the Fiscalía General de la República (FGR), the mayor, a member of the Movimiento Ciudadano party, allegedly received funds from the notorious Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) to facilitate their operations. Reports indicate that he held meetings with leaders of this criminal organization, raising serious concerns about his involvement in organized crime.
In a particularly shocking claim, it was alleged that just days before the property was secured in September 2024, Murguía Santiago visited the ranch and disposed of a bag containing human organs into a ditch. This accusation paints a grim picture of his alleged criminal activities.
As the judicial proceedings unfolded, the mayor was presented before a federal judge in Puente Grande, where he was ordered to remain in pre-trial detention. On May 8, 2025, Alejandro Gertz Manero, the Attorney General of the Republic, announced that Murguía Santiago was under formal arrest, and evidence of his purported connections to organized crime would be presented during the hearing.
The legal proceedings against José Ascensión 'N' are not only significant due to the serious nature of the allegations but also because they highlight the broader issues of corruption and organized crime that plague various levels of government in Mexico. The FGR's investigation revealed that Murguía Santiago is under scrutiny for crimes including organized crime and forced disappearance.
Murguía Santiago, also known as Chon, is not just a politician; he is a trained dental surgeon and has been serving as the mayor of Teuchitlán for two consecutive terms. He was re-elected after the 2021-2024 administration, marking his third term in office, having previously led the municipality from 2012 to 2015 as a representative of the Partido de la Revolución Democrática.
The collective's request during the hearing on May 9 included a plea for the families of the victims to be recognized as interested parties and to participate as "Amicus Curiae." This designation would allow them to contribute to the case, emphasizing their role as victims and their cooperation with the FGR in the pursuit of justice.
In their submission, the colectivo stated, "That this request be recognized as a valid instrument to intervene as interested third parties, or, if applicable, to be considered as Amicus Curiae, given our status as victims and our collaboration with the Fiscalía General de la República in the integration of the case and the promotion of processes for access to truth and justice." This highlights the importance of victim representation in legal proceedings, particularly in cases involving serious crimes associated with organized crime.
The events surrounding José Ascensión Murguía Santiago's case serve as a microcosm of the larger battle against corruption and violence in Mexico. The ongoing legal developments will be closely watched, as they not only impact the mayor's future but also reflect the struggles faced by many communities grappling with the repercussions of organized crime.
As the judicial process continues, the outcome will likely resonate beyond Teuchitlán, influencing public perceptions of government accountability and the rule of law in Mexico. The interplay of public support for the mayor and the demands for justice from the colectivo Guerreros Buscadores de Jalisco sets the stage for a complex and contentious legal battle.
In summary, the case of José Ascensión Murguía Santiago encapsulates the challenges facing Mexican society in its fight against corruption and organized crime. The demands for impartiality from the colectivo and the public's divided sentiments underscore the urgent need for transparency and accountability within the country's political system.
