The 5th Criminal Court of Campinas has put forth a request for a prison designation for Ligiane, a former employee of Unicamp condemned for embezzling R$ 4.2 million from scientific research funds. The court’s ruling comes as Ligiane remains a fugitive and is reported to be in the United Kingdom. The court judge has directed the Secretary of Penitentiary Administration to confirm the availability of a suitable female correctional facility to house the convicted individual.

This procedural step is essential as it marks the beginning of the extradition process. Following confirmation from the penitentiary administration regarding an available facility, the court will then relay the information to the Department of Asset Recovery and International Legal Cooperation (DRCI) within the Justice Ministry, expressing formal interest in the extradition. Ligiane has been sentenced to 10 years and 6 months in a closed regime for crimes including peculation and money laundering, indicating significant legal repercussions stemming from her actions at the university.

Furthermore, the court's verdict included provisions for Ligiane to return the embezzled funds, with adjustments for inflation, along with the imposition of fines equating to 37 days of salary. The defense of the former employee has indicated intentions to appeal the court’s decision, which introduces a potential delay in her extradition and sentencing. This case not only embodies issues of judicial integrity and accountability but also highlights the serious consequences of corruption within educational institutions in Brazil.