A Rio de Janeiro court has ruled against the confessed murderers of Marielle Franco, sentencing former military police officers Ronnie Lessa and Élcio Vieira de Queiroz to pay R$ 200,000 in moral damages to Mônica Benício, Franco's widow. In addition to the financial compensation, the court ruled that Benício would receive two-thirds of Franco's expected salary as a councilwoman during her probable lifespan, alongside other financial benefits such as a 13th salary and vacation pay. Furthermore, the ruling entails the freezing of assets belonging to the defendants.

Mônica Benício remarked that the court's decision represents a "symbolic victory" for her, emphasizing that it recognizes the disruption of the life she and Franco were building together, a future that was tragically cut short by the assassination. She insisted that, for her, this legal battle is about more than just a financial settlement; it’s about acknowledgment and justice for Marielle's life and work as a public servant. The ruling signifies a step forward in holding accountable those responsible for Franco's death and highlights ongoing societal demands for justice within Brazil.

This ruling could have broader implications in the fight against violence and impunity against political activists in Brazil, a country that has seen a significant rise in political violence. Benício's determination to seek justice not only for her own loss but for all who have faced similar fates underscores the collective struggle against systemic issues in Brazilian society. The ongoing discourse surrounding this case continues to spotlight the urgent need for reforms within the justice system and protections for those who advocate for human rights.