The case of a gang rape involving a 17-year-old girl in Copacabana has escalated with one of the defendants, Victor Hugo Simonin, turning himself into the authorities on Wednesday, dressed in a t-shirt that bore the English phrase 'Regret Nothing.' This defiant gesture has attracted widespread attention on social media, particularly due to the timing of his surrender, and a statement from his attorney indicated that Simonin plans to prove his innocence while claiming he has nothing to fear.

Simonin, aged 18, arrived at the 12th Police District in Copacabana accompanied by his lawyer, Ângelo Máximo, who emphasized that his client maintained a posture of confidence, stating that Simonin would face the allegations without trepidation. This incident has drawn scrutiny not only for the shocking nature of the crime but also for the symbolic message portrayed by Simonin's choice of attire, which has raised eyebrows regarding his attitude toward the charges against him.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Victor Hugo is the son of José Carlos Costa Simonin, a former state subsecretary of Governance, Compliance, and Administrative Management, who was removed from his position just hours prior to the surrender. This connection has heightened the public interest and concern over the incident, prompting discussions regarding the implications of power dynamics in cases of sexual violence in Brazil.