Former lawmaker files ethics complaint against Rep. Emilio Carlo Acosta

Rep. Emilio Carlo Acosta (Facebook via Emilio Carlo Representante Distrito 20)

By THE STAR STAFF

Former Rep. Ángel Matos García, who served as chairman of the House Ethics Committee, has filed a formal complaint with that body against Rep. Emilio Carlo Acosta of District 20 (Cabo Rojo, San Germán and Hormigueros).

The complaint arises from alleged “serious ethical and potentially criminal violations” related to an incident on March 18 of this year, when Carlo Acosta was stopped by police for running a red light in Mayagüez. During the traffic stop, he reportedly attempted to exploit his position as a legislator to influence the officers and evade receiving a ticket.

The complaint asserts that evidence, including documents, recordings, and statements from various media outlets, reveals that the legislator invoked his relationship with a high-ranking police officer, an action that Matos García said clearly demonstrates intimidation and undue influence.

“The country cannot tolerate a representative who abuses his position to secure preferential treatment or intimidate public servants carrying out their responsibilities,” said the former Popular Democratic Party majority leader in the lower chamber. “Trust in the Legislative Assembly hinges on transparency and adherence to the law. No individual, especially those who craft the laws, is above accountability.”

The complaint demands that the Ethics Committee assume jurisdiction, conduct a thorough investigation into the reported incidents, and impose suitable disciplinary measures if warranted. It also insists on referrals to law enforcement agencies for assessing the potential commission of crimes.

Carlo Acosta, a freshman lawmaker from the New Progressive Party, did not answer requests for comment.