Teresa Padrón has expressed her frustration and disappointment following the delay of over a month in the court hearing of Damian Valdes-Galloso, which was initially set for this Thursday. The new date for the trial of the sole suspect in the murder of El Taiger has been rescheduled for January 29, 2025. "This isn't what we were hoping for; the process is dragging out, but we know it's all for the justice of José and his family. The date was moved to the next month because the grand jury is on holiday," Teresa, a friend and manager of the artist, revealed during a live broadcast.
Despite the lengthy postponement, Teresa emphasized her commitment to staying vigilant in the pursuit of justice for José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar. "Stay tuned, we will be here, we won't give up, we will keep attending the court sessions, and with God's favor, everything will be resolved soon. We anticipate this trial might take a long time, so we ask for everyone's patience and promise to keep you informed," she noted. In her Instagram stories, Teresa reinforced her determination to seek justice for El Taiger until the end.
"Even if the court session lasts just seconds and it takes 5 years, I will always be there for you, representing you, always standing up for you because many think that a few seconds in court don't matter, but they are completely wrong. Our presence does put pressure on the court, it makes a huge difference. Our presence is very important, and that's why we will always be there!" she wrote. "Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who came today, I appreciate it, and I know José does too," she added.
During Thursday's session, the prosecution requested Judge Milton Hirsch to reschedule the hearing due to the grand jury's winter recess. "Your Honor, the grand jury is on a winter break, and we would like to request a new hearing date for January 29," the prosecution stated, as reported by Telemundo 51. The defense, represented by public defender Annette Gómez, raised no objections to the request.
Supporters and Friends Anticipate Justice for El Taiger
The hearing drew significant anticipation from El Taiger's followers and friends, as it was expected that the grand jury would consider a prosecution request to elevate Damian's charge from second-degree murder to first-degree murder. However, this decision will now await the next hearing.
Although Valdez-Galloso was absent from the hearing, several friends, musicians, and fans of El Taiger attended the court to show their support. Among them, Cuban reggaeton artist Poppi stated, "José was one of my best friends in the genre, and what we want is justice." Meanwhile, Jeffery Jarqui, a fan of the singer, added, "We won't stop and will exhaust all resources to achieve justice."
On November 27, it was revealed that the Prosecutor's Office informed the artist's former manager of their intention to upgrade the charge against Damián Valdez-Galloso from second-degree murder to first-degree murder. In early December, the Miami-Dade Prosecutor's Office announced plans to present this request to a grand jury. It is important to note the distinction between a trial jury and a grand jury, with the latter not determining guilt or innocence but rather if there is enough evidence to indict.
Key Questions About the Case of El Taiger's Murder
Why was the court hearing postponed?
The court hearing was postponed because the grand jury is on a winter recess, prompting the prosecution to request a new date in January.
What is the significance of the grand jury in this case?
The grand jury is crucial in determining if there is sufficient evidence to upgrade the charge against Damian Valdes-Galloso from second-degree murder to first-degree murder.
How are El Taiger's supporters responding to the delay?
Supporters remain determined to attend court sessions and are committed to using all resources available to ensure justice for El Taiger.