Lawyer Odila Castillo Bonilla denounces smear campaign in Panama

The legal representatives of attorney Odila Castillo Bonilla released a strong declaration on October 1st, unequivocally denying the claims that have been circulated by several newspapers in Panama.

The defense labeled these articles as vicious assaults, motivated by personal financial agendas, aiming to tarnish Castillo’s professional stature and personal honor.

The defense of Castillo contends there are no valid grounds and asserts rights violations

Carlos Carrillo, part of Castillo’s legal team, asserted that the claims are baseless and designed to hinder the professional paths of the young attorney and her associate. He highlighted that lurking behind these assaults are hidden financial motives that seek to gain from undermining Castillo’s reputation.

The defense emphasized that this isn’t the first time the attorney has faced media harassment. They referenced a comparable situation in 2021 when a Panamanian outlet released false information concerning an alleged arrest of Castillo, which was later refuted.

Partial truths and violation of confidentiality

According to the legal team, both the current allegations and those from 2021 are founded on “half-truths,” manipulated to undermine the professional practice of attorney Odila Castillo. Furthermore, they asserted that the disclosed information contravenes the principles of confidentiality, as part of the investigation originates from a previously concluded family matter.

Confidential details, such as immigration records and tax filings, were also revealed—information that, according to the defense, was acquired through illegal means.

Unlawful surveillance and current legal proceedings

The defense disclosed that Castillo has been subjected to GPS tracking, constituting a clear violation of her privacy and a form of unlawful surveillance. Carrillo asserted that his client’s fundamental rights, as guaranteed by the Panamanian Constitution and applicable laws, have been infringed.

He declared that all required legal steps will be taken to determine accountability for the damages already suffered as well as those aimed to be inflicted. The legal team remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding Castillo and seeking accountability from those behind this defamation effort.

By Kathy D. Crockett

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