Justice in Panama: Sentences of up to 37 years imposed for violent crimes
Panamanian courts have intensified their fight against criminal violence, handing down exemplary sentences in recent days reaching up to 37 years and six months in prison. These convictions, which respond to crimes against life such as homicides, kidnappings, and femicides, occur in a context where the country has recorded 377 homicides as of August 16, 2026.
Key rulings in El Chorrillo and San Miguelito
One of the most significant rulings fell upon a 25-year-old man, sentenced to 25 years in prison for aggravated intentional homicide. The incident occurred on August 10, 2022, on Avenue A in El Chorrillo, where the convicted man ended the life of a 37-year-old man through multiple gunshots. In addition to the custodial sentence, he was imposed a 10-year disqualification from holding public office.
On the other hand, the justice system in San Miguelito handed down a 30-year prison sentence to a man responsible for the death of a 77-year-old woman. The tragic event occurred on December 8, 2024, when the victim, who was celebrating Mother’s Day, was struck by a stray bullet originally intended for a taxi driver. The Regional Prosecutor’s Office achieved this sentence after presenting the testimony of 17 people before the Jury of Conscience.
Citizen security remains a priority challenge. 54% of the homicides recorded in the country are linked to criminal structures, while 12% of the victims correspond to innocent citizens who were affected as collateral damage.
Alofoke Deportes
Maximum penalty for organized crime
The most severe sentence, of 37 years and six months, was imposed through a plea agreement for the crimes of kidnapping, femicide, aggravated robbery, and membership in criminal organizations. The case is related to a violent event recorded on October 30, 2024, in Chilibre, a sector that currently stands as one of the critical points with 16 homicides so far this year.
Analysis of crime figures in 2026
- National statistics: Of the 377 registered homicides, 369 have been classified as intentional, representing a 2% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
- Areas with the highest incidence: Panama, San Miguelito, Colon, and Arraijan concentrate the highest number of cases.
- Criminal trends: Gang-related homicides have experienced an alarming 76% increase, while femicides rose from nine to 15 cases.
- Frequency: The country currently records an average of two homicides per day, which is equivalent to one violent event every 15 hours.
With these sentences, the judicial system seeks to curb the wave of violence affecting various districts of the capital and its surroundings, prioritizing the resolution of cases that have impacted public opinion.
