Bolivian Teacher Sentenced to 30 Years for Feminicide of Colleague

In a landmark case in Bolivia, Willy Elvis Limachi Escobar, a 33-year-old teacher, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison without parole for the feminicide of Iris V.A.M., a 28-year-old fellow teacher. The crime, which took place in Achacachi, La Paz, has stirred significant public attention and highlighted ongoing issues of gender-based violence in the region.

The incident occurred in the early hours of May 28, 2024, in a rented room shared by the couple. Following a heated argument, Limachi Escobar strangled Iris V.A.M. to death. After committing the crime, he called his sister, confessing that he had 'lost control.' His sister reported the incident to the authorities, which led to his arrest in Tarija as he attempted to flee the country.

During the trial, prosecutors Gustavo Valdez and Rubén Velásquez presented compelling evidence, including the autopsy report, which confirmed that the cause of death was mechanical asphyxiation resulting from external cervical compression. Limachi Escobar admitted his guilt and requested an abbreviated procedure, resulting in the maximum sentence being handed down by the 1st Instructional Court of Achacachi.

Why this matters: This sentence highlights the significance of the case in bringing attention to the issue of gender-based violence in Bolivia and the need for stronger measures to protect women. The consequences of this case could lead to changes in laws and policies to prevent similar crimes and ensure justice for victims of feminicide.

Prosecutor Gustavo Valdez stated, 'The judicial authority took the alternative option of an abbreviated procedure. It was possible to determine the authorship, participation, and responsibility with probative elements. A sentence was issued.' Fiscal Departamental de La Paz, William Alave, emphasized the severity of the crime, ensuring that Limachi Escobar will serve the full sentence without the possibility of parole.

The case has brought to light Limachi Escobar's history of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and child abandonment. Iris V.A.M.'s family revealed that she had been planning to leave Limachi Escobar because of his aggressive behavior, which she feared would escalate if she attempted to do so, given his constant threats. Despite her family's advice to end the relationship, Iris felt trapped in a cycle of fear and abuse.

Limachi Escobar will serve his 30-year sentence at the San Pedro prison in La Paz. This case highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to protect women from domestic violence and ensure justice for victims of feminicide.

Key Takeaways

• Willy Elvis Limachi Escobar, 33, sentenced to 30 years in prison for feminicide of Iris V.A.M., 28.
• Crime occurred in Achacachi, La Paz, after a heated argument, with Limachi Escobar strangling Iris to death.
• Prosecutors presented compelling evidence, including autopsy report, leading to maximum sentence.
• Case highlights issue of gender-based violence in Bolivia, need for stronger measures to protect women.
• Limachi Escobar had history of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and child abandonment.