Original article: Ministro de Justicia en la polémica: Cuestionan intentos de responsabilizar a funcionaria de 27 años por rebajas de condenas

Justice Minister Faces Backlash: Criticism Over Blame Shift to 27-Year-Old Official for Sentence Reductions

Amid the controversy surrounding Justice Minister Fernando Rabat, an «exclusive» report by Canal 13 has raised eyebrows and has been subsequently echoed by various national media outlets.

The report cites an internal document from the ministry, identifying young attorney Trinidad Zegers Domínguez (27 years old) as the «official responsible» for reviewing requests for sentence reductions coming from the Social Reintegration Division.

The article notably underscores that Zegers «was at the center of the controversy in August for her limited experience as an advisor to the minister,» emphasizing that her responsibilities—according to the Transparency portal—include «reviewing and validating documentation submitted to the Cabinet for the minister’s signature; and in case of objections, forwarding it to the relevant area with necessary instructions.»

To many, this communication strategy was glaringly obvious. It appeared as a clear attempt to «cut the weakest link,» shifting the focus of responsibility onto a «less experienced official,» while ignoring that the minister is the one who ultimately signs the documents.

On social media, several comments reflected this sentiment: «Now it turns out that a 27-year-old official from the Ministry of Justice is to blame for reviewing requests for sentence reductions. No, folks. The ones in charge are adults and must take responsibility,» wrote journalist and former council member of Las Condes, Isidora Alcalde.

We will continue to provide updates.