Release of Axel Blumberg's Kidnapper Ignites Controversy

The recent release of Carlos Díaz, one of the individuals convicted in the kidnapping and murder of Axel Blumberg, is currently generating intense debate and outrage in Argentina. Díaz, who was a minor at the time of the crime, served 21 years in prison before being released by Judge Walter Venditti of the Federal Oral Court N°2 of San Martín. This decision is sparking strong reactions, especially from the victim's father, Juan Carlos Blumberg.

Juan Carlos Blumberg's Reaction: "They are releasing murderers"

Juan Carlos Blumberg, the father of the young engineering student who was tragically murdered, expressed his profound indignation. «They are releasing murderers. They not only killed Axel, but they tortured him, tore off his nails, and burned him with cigarettes,» Blumberg declared, as reported by ámbito.com. He emphasized the cruelty of the crime and the lack of remorse shown by Díaz throughout his time in prison.

Blumberg also recalled an instance when Díaz, after serving 15 years, stated that kidnapping was a profitable business, highlighting the unrepentant nature of the convicted criminal.

The Fight for Lowering the Age of Criminal Responsibility

Blumberg is currently using this event to reignite his long-standing campaign to lower the age of criminal responsibility in Argentina. «I believe the serious thing is that we have laws in Argentina, for which I have been fighting for 20 years and I have not been able to lower the age of criminal responsibility,» he stated during an interview on Radio Colonia's "De Una Con Niembro" program. He expressed his hope that a bill presented by Patricia Bullrich, alongside the Minister of Justice, will progress in Congress, while lamenting what he perceives as a lack of dedication from some politicians in prioritizing citizen safety.

Details of Carlos Díaz's Conduct in Prison

According to Juan Carlos Blumberg, Díaz displayed poor behavior throughout his imprisonment. «He had bad behavior in prison, he was always fighting with the other inmates, he did not attend school, nor did he go to the workplace that he had to do,» Blumberg stated. This information is fueling the criticism against his release, raising questions about the rehabilitation process and the criteria used for granting freedom to convicted criminals.

The Tragic Case of Axel Blumberg: A Summary

Axel Blumberg, a 23-year-old engineering student, was kidnapped and murdered in March 2004. He was abducted in Martínez while on his way to visit his girlfriend. The kidnappers held him captive for six days, demanding a $50,000 ransom from his family. Tragically, on March 23, 2004, he was killed with a gunshot to the head in a vacant lot in Moreno.

The Societal Impact and Mobilization

The kidnapping and murder of Axel Blumberg triggered one of the largest public mobilizations in Argentine history. Juan Carlos Blumberg became a prominent figure in the fight against crime and impunity. On April 1, 2004, a massive demonstration took place in front of the National Congress, gathering over 100,000 people, demanding justice and stricter laws.

The Trial and Sentences

In October 2006, the Federal Oral Criminal Court N° 2 of San Martín delivered sentences to those responsible for the kidnapping and murder of Axel Blumberg. Martín "El Oso" Peralta and José Jerónimo Díaz, identified as the leaders of the gang, received life sentences for aggravated extortionate kidnapping and homicide. Other members of the gang also received significant prison sentences:

  • Carlos Saúl Díaz: 20 years in prison.
  • Gerardo Carmona: 21 years in prison.
  • José Nápoli: 18 years in prison.
  • Sergio Miño: 14 years in prison.
  • Mauro Maidana: 10 years in prison.
  • Vanesa Maldonado: 8 years in prison.
  • Andrea Mercado: 6 years and 8 months in prison.
  • Analía Flores: 5 years and 8 months in prison.
  • Jorge Sagorsky: 6 years and 6 months in prison.

The National Chamber of Criminal Cassation upheld the life sentences for Peralta and Díaz in 2008. The Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation ratified these decisions in 2009, finalizing the sentences. Over the years, some of the convicts have obtained prison benefits. Most recently, Díaz regained his freedom after serving 21 years.

Legal and Social Repercussions

The release of Carlos Díaz is now sparking a renewed debate on the effectiveness of the penal system, the age of criminal responsibility, and the rights of victims versus the rehabilitation of criminals. The case continues to resonate deeply with Argentine society, reminding people of the ongoing struggle for justice and security.