Feb 11 • 17:55 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil Folha (PT)

Councilman from Bofete, in the interior of SP, is arrested for sexual assault of a vulnerable person after a 22-year sentence

Benedito Aleixo da Silva, a councilman from Bofete, Brazil, has been arrested for sexual assault of minors, following a definitive sentencing of 22 years in prison.

Benedito Aleixo da Silva, known as Dito Motorista, a councilman from Bofete in the state of São Paulo, was arrested by local police due to his conviction for sexual assault against vulnerable individuals. The crimes, which occurred between 2013 and 2019, involved victims who were between 10 to 14 years old at the time of the assaults. The arrest comes after a definitive ruling that left no room for further legal appeals, highlighting the severity of the case and its impact on the community.

Initially sentenced to 29 years in prison, Dito's penalty was reduced to 22 years, 1 month, and 15 days after a successful appeal filed with the São Paulo Court of Justice. Throughout the legal process, he remained free while contesting the charges; however, following the definitive nature of the latest ruling, police carried out the arrest. The case has attracted attention not only for the nature of the crimes but also for the involvement of a local political figure, raising questions about accountability and justice within the community.

The lawyer representing Dito Motorista has argued that the case against him relies significantly on the testimonies of the victims, claiming a lack of direct witnesses and conclusive forensic evidence. This assertion underscores the complexities often present in cases of sexual violence, potentially complicating public perception and the pursuit of justice for vulnerable populations. As discussions surrounding this incident unfold, it may lead to broader conversations about the protection of minors and accountability for public officials in Brazil.

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