Prosecutors allege that José Esteban Che Pech killed José Carlos Martínez Salazar during, or soon after, a sexual encounter at the latter's residence. Che Pech was arrested about 8:30 p.m. last night (Mar. 26) in Mérida's Santa Anna park, where police say he was trolling for other sex clients. He was taken into custody without incident, and presented to a state judicial officer today. Under Mexican criminal law Che Pech may be held for up to 30 days while authorities conduct a preliminary investigation, known as the averiguación previa. Bail is not customarily granted in such matters.
Martínez Salazar's body was discovered by family members in a pool of blood the morning of Mar. 20. Forensic examiners say he had been beaten severely, and his nose was broken. The immediate cause of death was aspiration of blood from his injuries.
Police originally attributed the brutal attack to robbery, but quickly put together a different scenario. Employees of a neighborhood Oxxo convenience store said both men stopped by the night of the murder, and told investigators that they believed Che Pech was a male prostitute. Technicians were able to gather fingerprints from beer bottles and plates at the crime scene, as well as from the victim's automobile, all of which matched the suspect.
Police theorize that Martínez Salazar called Che Pech and arranged for sexual services earlier in the day, then picked up the accused man and drove him to his residence. They say the victim asked Che Pech to engage in a sex act which the defendant refused. The men quarreled, leading to the assault. Prosecutors did not state why they believe this was the motive, but it would appear to be based on Che Pech's admissions to investigators.
Apr. 20: Che Pech entered a plea of not guilty to the charge of murder today. His story differs considerably from the official accusations against him. He claims that Martínez Salazar approached him in the park on the evening of Mar. 19, but that the two men were not previously acquainted. Martínez Salazar invited him to his home to watch moves and drink beer, "nothing else." On the way they stopped at an Oxxo to purchase the drinks. Once at Martínez Salazar's home the victim put on a pornographic movie and performed oral sex on the younger man. After awhile Martínez Salazar returned Che Pech downtown and gave him six pesos (about 75 cents). Che Pech said that they had never discussed payment for sex, and there was no argument about anything. "I know I didn't do anything wrong, and God is my witness" said the defendant at his court hearing. A trial is pending.
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