Top Chilean Lawyer Detained as Massive Corruption Scandal Unfolds

One of Chile's most prominent lawyers, Luis Hermosilla, was detained pending trial on charges of money laundering and tax fraud. The scandal, involving bribery and illicit payments, has implicated judges, politicians, and businessmen. Transparency International ranks Chile as the second-least corrupt country in Latin America. The case threatens to damage Chile's reputation for integrity.

One of Chile's most prominent lawyers, Luis Hermosilla, was placed in state custody on Tuesday as he awaits trial on charges of money laundering and tax fraud. The case has shaken the nation's corporate and political elite.

This latest development stems from a scandal that erupted last November with the leak of audio recordings allegedly capturing Hermosilla discussing bribes to officials from Chile's main market regulators. Despite denying the charges, Hermosilla does not dispute the authenticity of the recordings. His attorney claims he was manipulated into the conversation.

The wide-reaching investigation now implicates judges, politicians, and business figures, eroding public trust in a country known for its relatively low levels of corruption in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)