Authorities arrested former Batangas Vice Governor Richard “Ricky” Recto after his ex-girlfriend complained that the former local official allegedly threatened to spread her private photos and videos.
In a report by Emil Sumangil on GMA News “24 Oras” on Tuesday, it was said that the authorities raided Ricky Recto’s residence in Pasig City this weekend with a search warrant in effect.
According to Philippine National Police-Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) spokesperson Police Lieutenant Michelle Sabino, based on the victim’s complaint, Recto allegedly threatened to spread his private photos if he did not comply with the former governor’s demands that were not mentioned.
“So allegedly medyo sinasaktan siya… kaya siya napunta sa ACG kasi mayroon photos and videos that the suspect is threatening to expose,” said Sabino.
Sabino added that this is the reason why the PNP-ACG asked the court for a warrant to search and confiscation of Recto’s gadgets for examination.
“Gadgets ang aming pakay. Yung containing ng videos na magpapatunay para lumakas ang kaso namin,” the official explained.
Although the authorities obtained their purpose, it is said that Ricky Recto allegedly tried to flee which caused a policeman to be injured.
Ex-Batangas Vice Gov. Ricky Recto arrested over complaints of ex-gf
“He doesn’t want his gadgets to be out. So noong kinukuha na namin yung gadgets, he resisted. Isang tropa natin was injured, pinaso niya,” said Sabino.
Five firearms were also allegedly seized from Recto that were not registered.
“So, during the implementation of warrant, nakita doon scattered all over the place yung mga baril,” he added.
Recto will face multiple complaints such as violation of the Violence Against Women and Children Act, illegal possession of firearms, and direct assault.
In the recent election, Ricky Recto withdrew his candidacy for governor of Batangas province, citing “time to go.”
“Yes, I did. Nowadays, sa panahong ito dahil digital na ang halalan maaga nagfi-file ang lahat,” he told reporters. “Di naman makakasama, hindi naman iligal so minarapat kong mag-file and I obviously had my own intentions for doing so and we’re good, OK na ako, so it’s time to pull out.”