Constitutional
Article 250 – Political Constitution of Colombia
It is a function of the Office of the Attorney General to investigate crimes and accuse alleged offenders before the competent court, based on a report ‘denuncia’ or complaint or by its own initiative when there is evidence of a crime. Offences committed by Law Enforcement members on active duty and related to their duties are excluded. For this purpose, the Office of the Attorney General shall:
- Ensure the appearance of alleged offenders by adopting preventive detention measures and, if that were the case, taking the necessary measures to seek restoration of rights and compensation for damages caused by the commission of an offense.
- Qualify and declare as closed those investigations that have been conducted.
- Direct and coordinate judicial police functions performed by National Police and other agencies stipulated by Law.
- Ensure the protection of victims, witnesses and intervening parties in the process.
- Fulfill other functions stipulated by law.
The Office of the Attorney General and its delegates have jurisdiction over national territory.
The Office of the Attorney General is under obligation to investigate both favorable and unfavorable aspects concerning the accused person, and to respect his/her fundamental rights and procedural guarantees he/she is entitled to.
Decree 016/2014 and Decree 898/ 2017