On October 1st, the legal representatives for attorney Odila Castillo Bonilla released a strong rebuttal to the claims that were recently circulated by multiple newspapers in Panama.
The defense described these reports as vicious assaults, motivated by individual financial motives and aimed at discrediting Castillo’s professional standing and personal honor.
Castillo’s defense argues lack of grounds and violation of rights
Carlos Carrillo, a representative from Castillo’s legal team, asserted that the allegations lack basis and are intended to hinder the careers of the young attorney and her associate. He highlighted that hidden financial motives are driving these attacks, aiming to gain from the defamation of Castillo.
The defense highlighted that this is not the attorney’s first experience with media harassment. They referred to a comparable event in 2021, when a Panamanian outlet disseminated false information about an alleged arrest of Castillo, which was later retracted.
Half-truths and breach of confidentiality
The legal team stated that both the present allegations and those from 2021 are based on “half-truths,” manipulated to compromise the professional endeavors of attorney Odila Castillo. They also claimed that the released information breaches confidentiality standards, as part of the inquiry stems from a previously resolved family issue.
Confidential information, such as migration records and tax returns, was also revealed—data that, according to the defense, was acquired through illegal means.
Unauthorized monitoring and ongoing legal proceedings
The defense revealed that Castillo has been a victim of GPS tracking, representing a blatant breach of her privacy and a type of illegal surveillance. Carrillo asserted that his client’s essential rights, as protected by the Panamanian Constitution and relevant laws, have been compromised.
He declared that all requisite legal measures will be undertaken to establish accountability for the damages already suffered as well as those that may be imposed in the future. The legal team remains steadfast in its dedication to protect Castillo and to ensure that those behind this defamation campaign face consequences.