A court in Mato Grosso, Brazil, has acquitted Felipe Socio Moroni Wenceslau of charges related to domestic violence under the Maria da Penha Law. This decision came after the victim, who was assaulted with a billiard cue, expressed her desire not to proceed with the case. The ruling was made by Judge Arthur Moreira Pedreira de Albuquerque, who emphasized that the state's prosecution, represented by the Public Ministry, supported the acquittal based on the victim's stated disinterest in continuing the legal action.

The incident took place in November of the previous year when Felipe was caught on security footage assaulting his 22-year-old wife. The video showed him striking her with a billiard cue while she attempted to escape. This evidence was critical in the initial stages of the investigation; however, the case crumbled as the victim's refusal to cooperate limited the prospects of a successful prosecution, necessitating the court’s decision to dismiss the charges against him.

Judge Albuquerque's ruling underscores the complexities surrounding domestic violence cases in Brazil, particularly concerning the Maria da Penha Law, which is designed to combat domestic violence and protect victims. The case illustrates the vulnerabilities of victims once they opt to withdraw from legal proceedings, highlighting a potential gap in the system's ability to provide ongoing protection and justice for those affected by domestic abuse.