The family of the pregnant woman from Murtosa seeks an open trial concerning her disappearance, advocating for media presence. Consequently, they plan to appeal the court’s decision.
The trial of the man accused of murdering Mónica is scheduled for May 19 at the Aveiro Court, where a judicial source has indicated it will be held behind closed doors.
The presiding judge has ordered the and related proceedings. This means that only individuals involved in the proceedings and those permitted by the judge for valid reasons may attend.
This decision is contentious. SIC Notícias reports that António Falé de Carvalho, the attorney representing the victim’s family, intends to appeal the Aveiro court’s decision.
The defendant, Fernando Valente, faces charges of murdering Mónica, and additional charges including abortion, profanation of a corpse, unauthorized access, and possession of counterfeit currency intended for distribution.
The indictment by the Public Prosecutor’s Office states that for about a year, the businessman and victim were in an intimate relationship, which the defendant attempted to keep hidden, resulting in her pregnancy.
“Already seven months pregnant, on September 29, 2023, the victim informed the defendant of her condition, prompting him to plan her murder along with that of the unborn child to avoid paternal acknowledgment and claims against his assets,” the indictment states.
It is noteworthy that Mónica’s body remains undiscovered to this day.
