Sol Luis Fontanes

Sol Luis Fontanes Olivo
Mayor of Barceloneta, Puerto Rico
In office
May 6, 1986  March 1, 2012
Preceded by Héctor Ruíz Martínez
Succeeded by Wanda Soler Rosario
Personal details
Born (1949-10-13) October 13, 1949
Barceloneta, Puerto Rico
Political party Popular Democratic Party (PPD)
Spouse(s) Elsa Pérez Sánchez (1972-present)
Children Mirelsa
Sol Luis
Alma mater University of Puerto Rico (B.A.)
Interamerican University of Puerto Rico (M.A.)
Occupation Politician

Sol Luis Fontanes Olivo (born October 13, 1949 in Barceloneta, Puerto Rico) is a Puerto Rican politician and former mayor of Barceloneta. He was one of the longest tenured mayors of the island, spending 26 years in office. He is currently under arrest for charges of corruption.

Early years and studies

Fontanes was born on October 13, 1949, in Barceloneta, Puerto Rico, to Félix Fontanes and María Olivo. He studied in his hometown, graduating from high school in 1967. Fontánes then studied at the University of Puerto Rico, receiving a Bachelor's degree in 1972. He completed a Master's degree from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico in 1974.

Professional career

Fontanes worked as a teacher for several years. He also worked as Director of the Prevention Center of the Department of Anti-Addiction Services.

Political career

Fontanes became mayor of Barceloneta in 1986 after the death of Mayor Héctor Ruíz Martínez. Since then, he was re-elected six times.[1] For the 2008 general election, Fontanes received more than 70% of the votes, for one of the largest margins of victory that year.[2]

On February 15, 2012, Fontanes was arrested by the FBI and indicted on one charge of extortion.[3] He resigned his office on March 1, 2012.[4] On October 2012, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison.[5]

On January 24, 2013, Fontanes pleaded guilty and was sentenced to thirteen years in prison.

Personal life

Fontanes has been married to Elsa Pérez Sánchez since 1972. They have two children: Mirelsa and Sol Luis.[6]

References

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