CSM endorses report backing vetting of judge targeted by Mătăsaru
Judge Ana Cucerescu, a candidate for the position of judge on the Supreme Court of Justice (CSJ), has successfully passed the external evaluation. At its meeting on Tuesday, April 7, the Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM) approved the report from the Vetting Commission, which found no ethical or financial integrity issues concerning the magistrate.
The External Evaluation Commission for Judges recently submitted a report to the Supreme Judicial Council, recommending that judges support the external evaluation of integrity.
Once the report is approved by the Supreme Judicial Council, Ana Cucerescu can assume her position as a judge on the Council.
During the external evaluation process, the Commission examined complaints filed against the judge, potential deviations from ethical norms, possible conflicts of interest, and her financial situation. They found that the suspicions investigated were not confirmed and are unlikely to affect the candidate's integrity.
The Commission identified no signs of arbitrary behavior or abuse of authority. Furthermore, any issues raised in the public sphere, including those related to her professional activities or the assets she possesses, did not raise doubts about her compliance with integrity standards.
The evaluation also included an investigation into the purchase of an apartment and several vehicles. After analyzing the family's income, the Commission concluded that these purchases were justified.
Judge Ana Cucerescu works at the Chisinau District Court in Buiucani and has over 14 years of experience in the judicial system.
She is known for handling high-profile cases, including the conviction of former politician Iurie Roșca for influence peddling and the case of Gagauzia Bashkana Evghenia Guțul, involving the illegal financing of the former “Șor” Party.
Additionally, she is part of the panel examining a case related to the “bank fraud” scandal involving Vladimir Plahotniuc.
Recently, the judge’s name was mentioned in a controversial case involving activist Anatol Mătăsaru, who was detained on April 5 based on a complaint filed by the judge, on suspicion of stalking and harassment. He was released a day later, and his lawyer described the detention as excessive.
The police are also investigating the discovery of a tracking device on the judge's car in this case, although it is not yet clear whether this is directly connected to the individuals involved.
In response, Mătăsaru and his associates rejected the accusations, asserting that the activist’s actions were aimed at journalistic purposes.
