Case of the twins: Defence of Lacerda Sales rejects misfeasance charges
The defence of doctor António Lacerda Sales rejects the crimes alleged in the case of the Portuguese-Brazilian twins, considering the inquiry facts inconclusive.
Lacerda Sales denies crimes in Portuguese-Brazilian twins case
The defence of doctor and former State Health Secretary António Lacerda Sales formally rejected the accusation brought in the case of the Portuguese-Brazilian twins, according to a statement sent to Lusa. As CNN Portugal reported, the lawyers state that their client "does not recognise, and rejects, the crimes of which he stands accused".
Lacerda Sales, Nuno Rebelo de Sousa — son of the former President of the Republic — and the former clinical director of Santa Maria Hospital, Luís Pinheiro, stand accused of misfeasance in apparent concurrence with abuse of powers. Daniela Martins, mother of the twins, is charged with aggravated fraud.
The defence of the former government official contends that he followed the inquiry phase whenever possible, with the aim of assisting the holder of the criminal action in discovering material truth. The lawyers describe the facts established as "inconclusive or meriting other conclusions" and say that the accusation was received "with enormous surprise".
Despite the outcome of this procedural phase, the legal team affirms continued "belief in Justice" and guarantees that it will take all necessary steps to ensure that "justice is served in this case".
As for the next steps, the defence announces that it will analyse the accusation "with prudence", consult the entire case file and consider whether to request the opening of an investigation or await the continuation of proceedings to submit its response and evidence that it deems relevant.
Source: CNN Portugal