Éder Alberto Jorge Pimenta, a councilman from Urutaí, has officially become a defendant in a case involving the rape of an intern working at the Municipal Chamber of the city. According to the Goiás Public Ministry (MP-GO), he is charged with qualified rape as he allegedly exploited his position of power to commit the crime. The charges were accepted by the 2nd Criminal Court of Pires do Rio on Monday, indicating a serious escalation in legal proceedings against the councilman.

The response from Pimenta's legal team emphasizes that the acceptance of the charges does not equate to guilt but marks the commencement of the legal process where the rights to a fair defense and the possibility of contesting the charges will be upheld. This statement underscores the legal principle that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Meanwhile, after the allegations were brought to light by the victim, Pimenta lost his position as president of the Municipal Chamber and has been subjected to police investigation.

This case raises significant concerns about the abuse of power in political positions and the safety of individuals in vulnerable positions, such as interns or those in subordinate roles. The outcome of this legal proceeding will not only affect Pimenta’s career but may also have broader implications for political accountability and the treatment of sexual assault allegations in public office settings.