Rodríguez was reportedly in charge of direct communication with the company, overseeing pre-contract planning, managing funds, and serving as the liaison with CABEI. Prosecutors say he facilitated a hiring process that ultimately led to illicit financial gain for Cruz.

The Attorney General’s Office further claims that Chaves, acting in coordination with Rodríguez and Cruz, used his authority as president to stage the improper use of $32,000 from Bulgarelli’s company, benefiting Cruz. The funds were reportedly tied to the CABEI-managed contract from mid-2022.

Prosecutors allege that Cruz received that benefit indirectly, as a reward for his support to Chaves during his presidential campaign, advisory role at the Presidential House, and close personal ties with President Chaves.

The investigation is based on testimony and evidence provided by Bulgarelli, who was granted legal protection under Costa Rica’s “Opportunity Principle,” as defined in Article 22(b) of the Criminal Procedure Code.

The opportunity principle allows prosecutors to decline pursuing charges in certain serious cases if the individual agrees to cooperate fully with authorities.

The Attorney General’s Office noted that if Bulgarelli fails to provide effective assistance, criminal proceedings against him may be reinstated.

“If the collaboration provided by Bulgarelli turns out to be ineffective for the purposes of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, criminal prosecution against him will resume,” the Office said in a statement.

It is expected that President Chaves will address the Attorney General’s Office accusation within the next few hours.

Recently, President Chaves led a government-organized march to protest against Attorney General Carlo Díaz-Sánchez. The demonstration took place in front of the Supreme Court of Justice in San José, drawing participation from employees of public institutions, ministries, government agencies, and Chaves’ supporters.