RJ court upholds conviction of former anesthetist for rape during childbirth
The Rio de Janeiro court confirmed the 30-year prison sentence of former anesthetist Giovanni Quintella Bezerra for the rape of two patients during childbirth.
The 2nd Criminal Chamber of the Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice has unanimously upheld the conviction of former anesthetist Giovanni Quintella Bezerra, sentencing him to 30 years in prison for the rape of two vulnerable patients during childbirth. This decision was made on Tuesday, the 24th, following a thorough review of the case, which has drawn significant public attention and outrage due to the nature of the crimes involved. The judges supported the findings of the initial trial that took place in June 2025, ensuring that Bezerra's sentence remains unchanged.
In addition to his prison sentence, the court maintained the ruling that Bezerra must pay a total of R$ 50,000 in moral damages to each of his victims, reflecting the court's acknowledgement of the severe impact these crimes have had on the women's lives. The relator of the case, Judge Peterson Barroso Simão, characterized the offenses as not only heinous but also a serious affront to human dignity, emphasizing that such actions deeply traumatize not only the victims but also the broader society and the medical profession itself.
This case highlights the critical issues surrounding the safety and rights of patients in medical settings, as well as the legal and ethical responsibilities of medical professionals. The ruling serves as a stern reminder of the need to uphold justice in cases of sexual violence, particularly in environments where vulnerable individuals seek care. The decision has resonated widely, encouraging discussions about reform and policy changes in the medical field to enhance patient protection against abuse.