José Luis Ábalos and Koldo García: Prison Interview and⁢ Investigation details

The⁢ Arrest ​and Initial⁤ Charges

On ‍November 27, Judge Leopoldo‌ Puente issued a provisional⁤ arrest warrant without bail for José ⁤luis Ábalos and Koldo ​García due to accusations of membership in a ‌criminal organization, bribery, use of privileged ‌data, influence peddling, and embezzlement of‍ public money. The magistrate considered that both defendants‌ have unlocated funds and contacts abroad, posing a flight⁢ risk.

Life in Soto del Real Prison

Since their arrest, ⁤José Luis Ábalos and Koldo García have been sharing ‌a cell in the Soto del Real prison in Madrid. Until‌ recently, both remained silent before the media.However, on February‍ 28, 2024, Mornings 360 ‍published an exclusive interview with Ábalos, conducted via a questionnaire ⁢sent ​to ⁣his lawyer.

Ábalos’ Daily Routine ⁤and State of Mind

Ábalos described his experience in prison, stating, “I⁤ feel fine, stronger than ever. I ‍am receiving excellent treatment from all the⁣ prison officials and from the prisoners,who show me their support.” He spends his time reading extensively, currently focusing on biographies and literature,⁢ including Fouché’s biography, The Man in Search of Meaning ‍by viktor‌ Frankl, An Honorable exit by Éric Vuillard, El IV Empire by Bruno Cardeñosa, Prosperous Wind by Andrés Trapiello, Alejo⁢ Carpentier, and Pérez Galdós. He emphasizes being a great reader of all types of literature.

Support from Fellow Inmates

Ábalos also highlighted the support he ⁢receives from other prisoners: “Every ‍day I receive letters from other‌ prisoners ​held ⁤ in all prisons in Spain. They​ are letters of support and they⁣ are appreciated.”

Hopes for Release and Relationship with Koldo García

regarding his potential release before trial, Ábalos stated, “It is indeed my wish, I trust in Justice and that it will be like this.” He described his relationship with koldo García as positive, noting they have had ⁢to learn to ‍live together in the confined space of‍ a cell.

The Broader Investigation: Context and Implications

The‍ arrest of Ábalos and García is part of a larger investigation into alleged corruption‍ related to contracts awarded during the⁣ COVID-19​ pandemic. Specifically, the investigation centers around a €53 million contract ‍awarded to a company, solarium, for the procurement of masks. Koldo garcía, while serving as Ábalos’ advisor, allegedly played a key role in ⁢facilitating this contract. The allegations include inflated pricing and improper influence