MEXICO CITY — A veteran high school teacher in Mexico took his own life after posting a video message on social media in which he denied allegations of sexual abuse and criticized the country’s judicial system, calling his decision an “act of rebellion.”
Alberto Israel Jasso Cruz, who taught for 25 years at the Institute of Secondary Education (IEMS) in Mexico City, released the three-minute recording shortly before his death. In the video, Jasso spoke calmly to the camera, explaining that a female student had filed a sexual misconduct complaint against him on July 14 before both the school’s legal department and local prosecutors.
“I deny this categorically,” Jasso stated in the video, explaining that the student had accused him of touching her multiple times in a single day. He described facing such an accusation as a demoralizing experience that destroys a person’s livelihood, reputation, and social support network long before any legal resolution is reached.
Addressing why he chose not to fight the charges in court, Jasso claimed that defendants in such cases face systemic bias and that the presumption of innocence is often ignored. He framed his suicide not as an admission of guilt, but as a protest against structural flaws and corruption in the justice system.
“Quitting this life is not because I am guilty, but quite the opposite,” Jasso said, describing his action as a sacrifice aimed at highlighting the emotional, financial, and social toll imposed on the accused during lengthly legal battles.
In his final remarks, Jasso offered advice to various groups. He warned fellow educators to maintain strict professional boundaries with students, urging them not to form deep emotional bonds. He also called on women to consider the consequences of false allegations and advised parents involved in custody disputes to avoid costly court battles.
Following the circulation of the video, the case sparked widespread debate on Mexican social media regarding due process, false accusations, and institutional support for both victims and the accused.
In a public statement, IEMS confirmed the teacher’s death and noted that the complainant was a minor. The institute called for an end to misinformation, harassment, and hate speech surrounding the case, while emphasizing that it acted with due diligence and that ministerial authorities are responsible for investigating the allegations to ensure impartial justice.
Source: Univision
