Reforms to the Criminal Code in Guatemala (2014-2017)

The following article provides an overview of key reforms made to the Criminal Code in Guatemala between 2014 and 2017.

Notable Reforms

Between 2014 and 2016, several notable reforms were made to the Criminal Code in Guatemala. Here are some of the most significant changes:

February 19, 2014: Decree 8-2014

• Reforming Article 158 of the Criminal Code.

April 8, 2014: Decree 12-2014

• Added three new articles to the Criminal Code:
  • Article 294 Ter: Established the crime of “disturbance to the installation, use or repair of data transmission equipment.”
  • Article 421 Bis: Made it a crime to deny help in case of disturbance to data transmission equipment.
  • Article 452 Bis: Made it a crime to improperly collect money for installing or repairing data transmission infrastructure.

June 6, 2014: Constitutional Court (CC) Ruling

• Declared Articles 421 Bis and 452 Bis unconstitutional.

March 10, 2016: CC Declaration

• Declared Article 294 Ter unconstitutional.

Additional Reforms

Another notable reform made during this period was the addition of a tax on telephone lines to the Criminal Code. This was achieved through Decree 22-2014, which amended Article 358 B of the Criminal Code.

Implications of these Reforms and Declarations

These reforms and declarations of unconstitutionality may have significant implications for individuals and organizations in Guatemala, particularly those involved in telecommunications and data transmission. Further analysis is required to fully understand the impact of these changes on the legal landscape in Guatemala.