His one-day summary trial was held in early April behind closed doors. He was tried under Article 91 of the Penal Code, which imposes lengthy prison sentences or death for those who act against “the independence or the territorial integrity of the State.” On April 7, the Villa Clara Provincial Tribunal announced he had been sentenced to 18 years in prison. On April 24, the journalist was sent to Boniato Prison in eastern Santiago de Cuba Province.