A Mexican judge released 26 policemen who were accused of links to drug trafficking organization the Familia Michoacana, stating that there was no evidence that the criminal organization actually exists.
The attorney general of Guanajuato, where the policemen are based, has filed an appeal against the decision. His office has accused acting Judge Aguilera Ernesto Razo of cooperating with organized crime, reports Milenio.
Some of the officers, who were arrested in the municipalities of Jerecuaro and Coroneo, have allegedly fled since their release.
La Familia has a history of connections with the high levels of power in Mexico, allegedly paying off officials such as congressman Julio Cesar Godoy Toscano.
As Insight has reported, the Familia announced that it would dissolve itself in 2011, possibly in order to regroup. There have continued to be reports of Familia activities, for example in Cheran, Michoacan, where vigilantes barricaded their town against activity from the drug gang.
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