Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The Jalisco Prosecutor’s Office Specialized in the Fight against Corruption has initiated a thorough investigation into the administration of Luis Alberto Michel Rodríguez, the incumbent mayor of Puerto Vallarta. The probe follows serious allegations of fraud, illicit enrichment, and the diversion of federal resources.
The investigation, documented under the folder number FED/FEMCC-JAL/0000036/2024, specifically focuses on suspicions of the misuse of powers and authorities for the improper contracting of works. Such actions are deemed criminal offenses under Title Seven of the Penal Code of Jalisco.
Furthermore, another investigation, labeled as folder 557/2022, has been launched, prompting the Public Works Directorate of the Municipality of Puerto Vallarta to provide detailed information regarding its work contracts involving federal resources from Branch 33.
Despite the initial complaint being filed back in December 2022, formal notification and requests for official documentation regarding six direct award contracts were not issued until a year later. The authorities are keen on obtaining comprehensive insights into the reasons and justifications behind these contracts.
The Public Ministry of the Vallarta Region of the FECCJ has explicitly stated that it is examining the contracts for any potential violations falling under the purview of Title Seven of the state Penal Code.
Of significant note is Michel Rodríguez’s bid for re-election under the Morena party banner, even as accusations of corruption swirl around him. A notable incident occurred during a Council session on September 30, 2022, when Morena councilor Carla Esparza returned a yellow envelope allegedly containing cash sent by the municipal president in exchange for approving modifications to the 2023 Expenditure Budget.
Observers within partisan circles have pointed out that Michel Rodríguez may be operating through his son, José de Jesús Michel López, orchestrating various political strategies, including campaigns critical of Claudia Sheinbaum and supportive of Adán Augusto López Hernández.
In light of the ongoing allegations and investigations by the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, Mayor Michel Rodríguez has formally requested a temporary leave of absence from the Council, effective February 27, to commence campaigning for his re-election bid.
