Tougher penalties proposed for domestic violence

TOUGHER PENALTIES for aggravated domestic violence are contained in a draft law to reform the criminal code introduced by Panama’s Attorney General Ana Belfon.

Belfon’s proposal includes sentences of 12 to 15 years in prison for crimes that result in a victim’s face being disfigured, incapacity for more than 60 days or permanent bodily or psychological damage.
These penalties will be also be applied to offenders who cause injuries to a pregnant woman.
In addition to spouses, the measures apply to anyone who has a close relationship with the victim.
Currently, the Criminal Code punishes these crimes with up to 10 years in prison.
Recently, a study released by the Comptroller revealed that, in Panama, 62,000 women said a man could be justified in hitting his wife.