In a measure celebrated by environmental organizations and citizens, the city of Comodoro Rivadavia will have the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office on Environment and Animal Rights (UFE AyDA), aimed at investigating environmental crimes and crimes against animals.
This initiative responds to the need for a specific approach in the jurisdiction with the largest population in Chubut, ensuring effective action against ecological crimes and animal abuse.
Endorsement from the Attorney General
The announcement was made by the Attorney General of Chubut, Jorge Miquelarena, who emphasized the importance of these prosecutor’s offices in the administration of justice.
The resolution enabling the UFE AyDA highlights that “the environment is one of the most valuable objects to protect, as human subsistence and healthy development depend on it”.
It also emphasizes the urgency of an effective legal regulation, capable of mitigating risks and repairing environmental damage.
Operation of the specialized Prosecutor’s Office
The UFE AyDA Comodoro Rivadavia will be based in the Single Office of the Public Prosecutor’s Office (OUMPF) and will have:
- A Chief Prosecutor.
- Two specialized professionals.
- An administrative employee.
The team is expected to be expanded in the future according to the work demands, ensuring an efficient structure.
In this initial stage, the leadership will be rotating, and will be under the responsibility of Dr. Juan Carlos Caperochipi.
Environmental crimes to be addressed by the Prosecutor’s Office
The purpose of the UFE AyDA is to optimize the investigation and sanctioning of crimes contemplated in various laws, including:
- Hazardous Waste Law.
- Protection of Archaeological and Paleontological Heritage Law.
- Wildlife Conservation Law.
- Animal Abuse Law.
- Prohibition of Dog Racing Law.
- Legislation on pollution, deforestation, and hazardous spills.
Additionally, it will pursue crimes under the Criminal Code and other regulations related to the protection of the environment and animals as sentient beings.
Constitutional foundations and legal framework
The creation of the UFE AyDA is supported by articles 41 and 109 of the National and Provincial Constitutions, which:
- Guarantee the right to a healthy environment.
- Establish the duty to preserve the environment and fauna.
This new agency will complement the work of the executive entities, which until now have addressed these issues through administrative law, allowing for more effective criminal prosecution.
Impact of the measure on ecological and animal protection
The new Prosecutor’s Office represents a significant advance in the fight against environmental crimes and animal cruelty, reinforcing the tools of the judicial system to ensure compliance with conservation regulations.
With this step, Comodoro Rivadavia positions itself as a reference in environmental protection and animal welfare, strengthening the defense of natural resources and native fauna.
