Spain’s High Court has refused a request to indict former Valencia regional president Carlos Mazon over the October 29, 2024 floods that killed 230 people and destroyed thousands of homes along the country’s Mediterranean coast.
The court ruled on Monday that there was no evidence Mazon violated laws governing emergency management and concluded the conduct described in the investigating judge’s report did not amount to a criminal offense.
Investigating judge Nuria Ruiz Tobarra had argued for negligence charges, asserting that Mazon’s decision to withdraw to a private dining room during the crisis was a decisive factor in the deadly human toll.
The High Court said there is no solid, objective basis to accuse him of criminal wrongdoing. Tobarra may continue her inquiry and could file new prosecution requests if further evidence emerges.
Mazon resigned on November 3, 2024 amid pressure from across the political spectrum but remains under judicial scrutiny.