THE CRIME OF ABUSE OF AUTHORITY AND BREACH OF LEGAL DUTY UNDER THE PENAL CODE OF THE STATE OF SONORA: A LEGAL AND ETHICAL ANALYSIS OF PUBLIC POWER MISUSE IN MEXICO

Abstract

This paper analyzes the crime of abuse of authority and breach of a legal duty as defined in Article 180 of the Penal Code of the State of Sonora, Mexico. It explores the ethical and juridical dimensions of the misuse of public power, focusing on how actions or omissions by public officials erode institutional legitimacy and public trust. Using a juridical–comparative approach supported by Mexican jurisprudence and international legal theory, the study examines both the legal structure of the offense and its ethical implications for governance. The findings reveal that both abuse of authority and breach of duty constitute fundamental deviations from the principles of legality and moral responsibility. These crimes not only harm individuals but also weaken democratic accountability and ethical integrity within public administration. The research concludes that the effectiveness of sanctions depends not only on legal enforcement but also on the promotion of institutional ethics, civic participation, and transparent governance. Strengthening these mechanisms is essential to restoring public confidence and ensuring that state authority serves the collective good rather than private interests.