Tramas de corrupción en gobiernos subnacionales. Fallas en el sistema de compras públicas de Jalisco. El caso ‘A toda máquina’

Abstract

How are the mechanisms that allow manipulation of public purchases configured and how do they ensure impunity for those responsible? Based on the case called ‘A Toda Máquina’ (‘Full Steam Ahead’) –which was investigated and sanctioned in the State of Jalisco, Mexico– the work contributes to understanding the modus operandi of corruption networks between public officials and private companies. The hypothesis being tested maintains that legislation that allows broad discretionary powers in the public acquisitions and procurement model, together with conditions of institutional impunity, are sufficient elements to configure effective corruption networks. Using the case study method, a large amount of information is analyzed from journalistic investigations, administrative documents and judicial rulings that show the complexity of identifying, investigating and sanctioning corruption networks at the local level. Specifically, the structure and operation of a corruption scheme is analyzed in terms of its preconditions, operation, and destination of improperly obtained assets.