Iñaki Urdangarin Appears Before Spanish Judge

The Spanish King’s son-in-law, Iñaki Urdangarin, the Duke of Palma, appeared in a Palma de Mallorca court Saturday to face questioning over embezzlement and fraud charges.

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He is being investigated for his involvement in alleged misuse of millions of public funds at his non-profit Noos Institute, which Urdangarin ran from 2004 to 2006.

On his way to court, Urdangarin spoke to reporters, telling them, “I appear today to demonstrate my innocence, my honor, my professional activity. For all these years I have discharged my duties and taken decisions properly and transparently.”

Inside, Urdangarin spoke to Judge Jose Castro in a close court. According to an anonymous official, the Judge asked the Duke about the workings of his companies involved in the case.

It is the judge who will decide if the case should go to trial.

Outside the court were anti-monarchists protesting the Duke. Some waved the flag Spain had during its brief republican government from 1931 to 1939, while others had signs that read “Inaki owes us money” and “Monarchy Corruption”.

“We want justice to be the same for all Spaniards. He should be convicted,” said protester Claudio Borilla.

Urdangarin’s alleged involvement in this matter led him to be sidelined by the Spanish royal family, which means he is excluded from official duties, such as National Day events.

During his Christmas speech, King Juan Carlos said ”all are equal before the law”, though he did not directly refer to his son-in-law.

“When untoward conduct arises which is not in keeping with the law and ethics, society naturally reacts. Fortunately we live by the rule of law and any unworthy act must be judged and penalised,” he said.

Sources: BBC, Reuters UK