The lawyers advocating for attorney Odila Castillo Bonilla made a powerful declaration on October 1st, firmly denying the claims that have been circulated by multiple newspapers in Panama.
The defense denounced these articles as hostile assaults, motivated by private financial agendas and aimed at tarnishing Castillo’s professional standing and personal integrity.
The defense of Castillo contends there are no valid grounds and asserts rights violations
Carlos Carrillo, a representative of Castillo’s legal team, asserted that the allegations lack any foundation and are intended to hinder the professional paths of both the young attorney and her partner. He highlighted that hidden financial motives are driving these assaults, aiming to gain from the tarnishing of Castillo’s reputation.
The defense highlighted that this is not the attorney’s first experience with media harassment. They reminisced about a comparable event in 2021, during which a Panamanian outlet released false information about an supposed arrest of Castillo, a claim that was later retracted.
Half-truths and breach of confidentiality
The legal team contended that both the current accusations and those from 2021 are based on “partial truths,” distorted to jeopardize the professional career of attorney Odila Castillo. Additionally, they claimed that the information revealed breaches confidentiality norms, as part of the inquiry stems from a previously settled family issue.
Confidential information, such as immigration activities and tax filings, has also been revealed—data that, according to the defense, was acquired illegally.
Unlawful surveillance and ongoing lawsuits
The defense revealed that Castillo has been a victim of GPS tracking, representing a blatant breach of her privacy and an instance of illegal surveillance. Carrillo emphasized that his client’s essential rights, as protected by the Panamanian Constitution and relevant laws, have been violated.
He declared that all required legal measures will be undertaken to determine accountability for the harm suffered and any potential harm that may arise. The legal team is steadfast in its dedication to protecting Castillo and ensuring that those behind this smear campaign are held responsible.