This morning, a judge rejected the request for release by Chania Chante Fernandes Pedra (24). The judge ordered that a lawyer from Curaçao must defend Fernandes Pedra in the criminal case.
It was understood that no lawyers in Aruba were available to handle Fernandes Pedra’s case. This led the judge to order that a lawyer from Curaçao who is available must come to defend Fernandes Pedra.
In the courtroom downstairs, family members of the victims were present, while upstairs sat the family of Fernandes Pedra. The judge stated that he wants to review the legal position for Fernandes Pedra, the psychological report, and the Jeep’s computer data, noting that additional documents have also been added to the file.
The prosecutor presented the charges against Fernandes Pedra: that on January 4, 2025, she struck and killed Josely Paulina Vasquez Gonzalez (65) and Carlos David Vialez Valerio (54) and then drove away. The prosecutor added that Fernandes Pedra is accused of driving the Jeep without a driver’s license, driving under the influence, driving at high speed, and operating in an emotional state.
The prosecutor also stated that Fernandes Pedra is accused of the attempted murder of Ms. Williams and Mr. Fernandes Rivas.
NO LAWYER AVAILABLE The judge asked Fernandes Pedra about the status of her legal representation. Fernandes Pedra stated that she had emailed documents explaining everything to the court. When the judge asked who prepared the letter, Fernandes Pedra replied that attorney Moszkowicz had helped her.
The judge mentioned that the file contains police investigation reports, a report from a Dutch expert who analyzed the Jeep’s computer, and a letter from the victims’ lawyer stating they are undergoing medical treatment. A claim for damages is also included.
CURAÇAO LAWYER TO BE SOUGHT The judge noted there is also an email from the prosecutor stating attempts were made to secure legal assistance from Aruba. The Bar Association indicated that no local lawyers are willing to take the case, though two lawyers from Curaçao are available. The prosecutor stated that the Department of Social Affairs reported there is no funding allocated for the travel and lodging expenses of the Curaçao lawyers, and that the judge would need to make a decision on this matter. The judge pointed out that by law, the costs of a lawyer’s fees and lodging must be covered by the Government of Aruba.
PSYCHOLOGICAL REPORT NOT READY The judge stated he received an email from psychologist Boekhoudt explaining that it will take more time before the report is ready due to Fernandes Pedra’s emotional state. The psychologist estimates needing 3 more weeks.
The judge received numerous documents signed by Fernandes Pedra regarding her legal situation and requests she made. Fernandes Pedra did not want to read the documents due to her emotional state. The judge temporarily recessed the court to read the documents and present a summary in the courtroom afterward.
Upon returning, the judge stated there were requests he needed to present and listen to the prosecutor’s reaction.
SUSPECT’S REQUESTS The judge pointed out that the suspect is complaining about the manner of her 11-day detention at the police station. Documents prepared by Moszkowicz indicate that:
*The technical investigation on the Jeep is incomplete.
*The behavior of the pedestrians must be investigated, including whether they were under the influence of alcohol.
*The damage to the Jeep must be investigated, and questions raised on whether the Dutch report can be used as evidence.
*A reconstruction of the accident and verification of events should be ordered.
*Arguments are raised that she could not see the pedestrians.
*It must be verified whether the car’s computer was actually sent to the Netherlands and if nothing was tampered with, and if security cameras captured the event.
*Witnesses should be heard.
*Medical treatment was allegedly denied while she was locked up at the police station.
*There was resistance against legal assistance.
*A renewed request was made for her release under stipulated conditions pending the completion of the investigations and securing a lawyer.
The judge noted that on April 10, 2026, the previous lawyer was asked if there were any requests. That lawyer requested to hear Ms. Williams and Mr. Fernandes Rivas. Nothing was decided then, and the request is being made again now.
PROSECUTOR OPPOSES RELEASE The prosecutor maintained their stance regarding the interrogation of witnesses, arguing it is unnecessary to hear them again. Regarding security camera footage, the prosecutor pointed out that all footage has already been sent. Concerning the car computer investigation and accident reconstruction, the prosecutor questioned what new insights they would bring since the data is already present. The prosecutor stressed that it is more important for Fernandes Pedra to have a lawyer and for the case to be tried for the sake of the victims.
The prosecutor argued against releasing Fernandes Pedra, noting that the investigation from the Netherlands demonstrates her extremely dangerous driving behavior which caused the death of two people. The prosecutor pointed out that the offense carries a prison sentence of up to 8 years, and that the community would not look favorably upon her release. It was emphasized that no personal circumstances have been presented that warrant a change of mind.
CURAÇAO LAWYER APPOINTED After a brief recess, the judge returned with his decisions. The judge stated it is crucial for Fernandes Pedra to have legal counsel, deciding she will be assigned two lawyers from Curaçao from whom she must choose one. Regarding lodging expenses for the lawyer, the judge reiterated that the law is clear that necessary expenses must be covered by the Government.
NO ACCIDENT RECONSTRUCTION The judge found that all accident video footage is included in the case files and that a report on the Jeep’s computer is coming from the Netherlands. The judge ruled there is insufficient grounds for an accident reconstruction and extra investigations, emphasizing that one must not overlook the fact that Fernandes Pedra’s reckless speeding created the risk of a fatal accident. The request was denied.
Regarding the request to hear witnesses, the judge noted the psychologist’s assessment that the witnesses would face risks if forced to testify again. The judge stated that video footage shows everything clearly and that previous hearings before the investigative judge (Hues Comisario) were sufficient.
SUSPECT REMAINS DETAINED The judge concluded there are compelling reasons to keep her detained, considering the new reports, the 8-year prison penalty for the crime, and the severe shock caused to the community. Fernandes Pedra will not be released. The trial is scheduled for October 2, 2026.
ACCIDENT VIDEO TO BE SHOWN IN COURT The judge announced that on October 2, 2026, the video of the incident will be played in court, and if the victims find it too distressing, they may step out of the courtroom for a moment.