Anti-corruption prosecutors argue Zapatero's office jewels belong to the state

The Anti-corruption Prosecutor's Office asserts that the jewelry uncovered in the former office of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero should be classified as part of the public treasury. In a filing to Judge José Luis Calama, prosecutors request an additional charge of embezzlement alongside existing accusations of criminal organization, influence peddling, document falsification, money laundering and illicit appropriation linked to the Plus Ultra rescue.

They rely on Zapatero's claim that the pieces were a 2007 gift from King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, which under Spanish jurisprudence would make them state property. The prosecutors note that the 2012 inventory of assets transferred to Patrimonio del Estado does not list the jewels, meaning the alleged offense began when they were found, and the 15-year limitation period applies. They also cite the Law of Good Governance, which obliges significant gifts to be transferred to the state's heritage.