Feb 12 • 14:59 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

Suspect of killing university student in Greater BH had already been convicted of rape, robbery, theft, and drug trafficking

Ítalo Jeferson da Silva, the suspect in the murder of university student Vanessa Lara de Oliveira, has a criminal history that includes convictions for serious crimes such as rape and drug trafficking.

The Minas Gerais Court of Justice revealed that Ítalo Jeferson da Silva, aged 43, is the main suspect in the murder of Vanessa Lara de Oliveira, a university student who was last seen alive on October 10. Vanessa's body was subsequently discovered in an area of vegetation, showing signs of sexual violence. This incident has shocked the local community, as Vanessa was a promising student with a bright future ahead.

According to court records, Ítalo has a lengthy criminal history that includes multiple convictions for serious offenses such as rape, drug trafficking, theft, and robbery. He had been serving a sentence in a semi-open regime since December 2025 but faced a new arrest warrant following his designation as a suspect in Vanessa's murder. This development raises concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of the justice system in managing repeat offenders.

As the investigation unfolds, the Police Civil and the Public Ministry have not yet filed any formal procedures related to the homicide, with the case currently under judicial secrecy. The situation highlights broader issues surrounding crime prevention, victim safety, and the legal processes in Brazil, and it questions how previous convictions can impact future crimes committed by individuals like Ítalo.

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