Tijuana Ombudsperson Fast Tracks Cases

**Tijuana’s new ombudsperson vows prompt actions against police misconduct, addressing delays and ensuring confidentiality for complainants to foster trust and eliminate corruption.**

**Upcoming Tijuana Ombudsperson Aims to Expedite Investigations Against Police**

In response to the daily influx of complaints and allegations against police officers for abuse and extortion, Teresita de Jesús Balderas Beltrán, the recently elected ombudsperson for Tijuana’s next administration, has announced her intentions to accelerate the investigation processes to ensure timely resolutions and prevent procedural delays.

“We are working internally with the Ombudsperson’s Office to monitor the processes carefully. Often, the delays are due to not notifying relevant agencies promptly. I will ensure that the Investigation and Accountability Directorate under my charge provides timely notices to prevent these delays,” said Balderas Beltrán.

Currently, the investigation and resolution of a complaint submitted to the Prosecutor Ombudsperson against a police officer takes between four months to a year. If the process extends beyond 12 months, the complaint is dismissed, leaving victims without recourse.

Balderas Beltrán also emphasized her commitment to ensuring that the complaint process and the corresponding investigations are conducted with confidentiality to protect individuals from retaliation, a fear which often discourages them from filing complaints. She highlighted her goal to eliminate corrupt practices among police officers during her term.

“People do not report because they are afraid. We will provide assurance that their identities will be protected, and actions will be taken with secrecy and professionalism. Public knowledge of extortion practices needs to be addressed through our work plans. The Ombudsperson’s Office will function as an internal control body to monitor, observe, propose solutions, and engage in working groups to build public trust in the police force,” she added.

Balderas Beltrán mentioned her effective coordination with the mayor-elect, Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, and the security secretary, Julián Leyzaola, to improve the current perception of the police force.

She noted that she is currently reviewing pending matters left by the outgoing ombudsperson, Rafael Leyva Pérez, and will begin addressing complaints, investigations, and grievances as soon as she assumes office.


**Additional Recent Developments**

**Three Bodies Found in a Vehicle in Tijuana**

Authorities discovered three bodies inside an abandoned vehicle in Tijuana on September 25, 2024. The investigation is ongoing, and details about the identities of the deceased and potential motives remain undisclosed.

**Senate Grants Leave to Members Joining Sheinbaum’s Cabinet**

On the same day, the Senate granted leave to Harfuch, Godoy, and Hernández, allowing their integration into Claudia Sheinbaum’s cabinet. This move is part of Sheinbaum’s efforts to form a strong team as she prepares to assume her new role.

**Tijuana Ranks Third in Mexico for Most Expensive Housing**

A recent report indicates that Tijuana is now the third most expensive city in Mexico concerning housing prices. This trend is attributed to various economic factors impacting the real estate market in the region.

**King of Spain Not Invited to Sheinbaum’s Inauguration**

Claudia Sheinbaum did not invite the King of Spain to her inauguration ceremony. This decision stems from an unresolved communication issue dating back to 2019 when a letter sent by President AMLO to the King went unanswered.

These headlines reflect ongoing and emerging issues within the region, ranging from local governance to broader political dynamics in Mexico.