The Puerto Rico Court of Appeals has upheld a ruling against Eugenio Rodríguez Martínez for violating prison regulations regarding drug possession. The court confirmed that Rodríguez was found guilty of violating the Corrections Department's Code 129, which prohibits the possession of controlled substances. This decision affects the prison system and reinforces the authority of correctional agencies to enforce disciplinary measures.

On August 20, 2026, the court ruled on case number TA2026RA00389, which involved an administrative review of a disciplinary action taken by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR). The ruling is significant as it highlights the legal standards for maintaining order within correctional facilities and the procedures that govern disciplinary actions against inmates.

Background

The dispute centers around an incident that occurred on April 27, 2026, when Rodríguez was accused of handing a plastic package containing contraband to another inmate, Samuel Morales Plumey. The package was later found to contain fentanyl, a powerful opioid. Following the incident, a disciplinary report was filed by Officer Keniel Viruet Mercado, who witnessed the exchange.

After a disciplinary hearing held on June 2, 2026, the DCR determined that Rodríguez had violated the prison's regulations. Despite his denial of the charges, the DCR imposed a 60-day suspension of certain privileges as a penalty. Rodríguez subsequently filed a request for reconsideration, which was denied, prompting him to appeal the decision to the Court of Appeals.

The Ruling

The Puerto Rico Court of Appeals confirmed the DCR's ruling, stating that the evidence presented was sufficient to uphold the disciplinary action against Rodríguez. The court emphasized the importance of the DCR's authority in maintaining order within correctional facilities. The opinion noted, "The DCR fulfilled the applicable regulations and the determinations of the Resolution are supported by the evidence in the administrative record."

The panel of judges, including President Judge Bonilla Ortiz, Judge Martínez Cordero, and Judge Robles Adorno, agreed that the DCR's actions were reasonable and within its legal authority. The court highlighted that Rodríguez did not demonstrate that the DCR acted in bad faith or arbitrarily in reaching its decision.

Impact

This ruling reinforces the authority of correctional agencies in Puerto Rico to enforce regulations regarding drug possession and other prohibited activities within prisons. It also sets a precedent for how disciplinary actions are reviewed by appellate courts, emphasizing the deference given to administrative agencies in matters of internal regulation.

Inmates and correctional staff alike are affected by this ruling, as it clarifies the standards for evidence and the procedures required for disciplinary hearings. The court's decision may deter similar violations in the future and underscores the importance of maintaining order and safety within correctional institutions.

What's Next

Rodríguez has the option to seek further legal recourse, although details on any potential appeals were not specified in the court filing. There are no related cases pending at this time.