Jaqueline Malinali Gálvez Ruiz, sister of former presidential candidate Xóchitl Gálvez, has been sentenced to 89 years in prison by the Third District Court for Criminal Matters of the State of Mexico. She was found guilty on multiple charges, including organized crime, kidnapping two victims, and possession of ammunition reserved for the military.
The verdict was delivered on March 14, 2025, by Judge Mariana Vieyra Valdés, who stated Gálvez was part of the notorious kidnapping gang known as "Los Tolmex." This criminal organization has been notorious for its brutal methods, including the kidnapping, confinement, and mutilation of its victims.
Jaqueline Malinali was arrested back on July 20, 2012, during a federal police operation where two victims were rescued from captivity. Reports suggest she was responsible for identifying and targeting potential victims for the gang, which operated primarily in Toluca and Azcapotzalco.
Gálvez's sister had already been serving time for over twelve years when the recent conviction was announced. Throughout her time behind bars, her case has drawn considerable media attention partly due to her familial connection to Xóchitl Gálvez, who has publicly proclaimed her belief in her sister's innocence. Nevertheless, the former presidential candidate has acknowledged the rule of law, stating, "If she is found guilty, she must pay for her crimes."025
When Jaqueline was apprehended, she was detained alongside several members of her gang, including Leonardo Sales Andrade, known as "El Tolmex." The associated gang, renowned for its violent operations, is believed to have exploited vulnerable individuals for ransom, often subjecting them to appalling treatment.
Following the sentencing, Xóchitl Gálvez had previously expressed concerns about the judicial process concerning her sister's case. She highlighted how ex-minister Arturo Zaldívar pledged to review cases like her sister’s during his visit to the Santa Martha Acatitla Women’s Rehabilitation Center, as part of his commitment to address longstanding judicial delays.
Despite the challenging circumstances, illegal group activities persisted, prompting the Gálvez family to remain vocal about the injustices they perceive are inherent within the system. Xóchitl Gálvez, during her presidential campaign, contended she had no prior knowledge of her sister’s illegal involvement, emphasizing her commitment to justice and fairness.
The controversy surrounding Jaqueline has been exacerbated by the extreme nature of the gang's operations. Victims were reportedly held captive within metal cages, highlighting the severity of the crimes committed under the banner of 'Los Tolmex.' The gang's operations had garnered extensive media scrutiny, with authorities noting their brutal tactics, including violence and intimidation aimed at securing ransom payments.
Since the sentence was handed down, Jaqueline Malinali has initiated the process to appeal her conviction. Her legal team filed the appeal just days after the conviction, asserting her innocence and questioning the evidentiary basis of the court's decision. Their appeal, submitted to the Court of Appeals in the State of Mexico, seeks to reassess the evidence and verdict of the original trial.
The situation remains tense, with public interest high as both sides contend their narratives. Xóchitl Gálvez has maintained her support for her sister, even as her political stance on other issues related to crime and justice continues to evolve. The intersection of personal relations and legal proceedings has put both women under heightened scrutiny from media and the public alike.
Jaqueline's legal battle continues against the backdrop of national issues concerning crime and justice systems within Mexico. The eventual outcome of her appeal could have larger ramifications for perceptions surrounding organized crime prosecutions and the treatment of gendered violence within the legal framework.
The case has opened dialogues around imprisonment conditions, family relations of accused individuals, and systemic biases affecting those within the criminal justice system. With Jaqueline’s appeal efforts moving forward, it remains to be seen how the judicial system will respond to the plea and the narrative surrounding her lengthy incarceration.
Both sisters have become emblematic of the complex interplay between politics, family, and crime, with conversations concerning justice reform continue to dominate the public forum. While Jaqueline fights for her chance at vindication, the broader societal questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement units and legal governance persist, igniting discussions across communities.