Bolsonaro defense says ex-president gives up gun to stay under house arrest

Jair Bolsonaro's defense team has informed Brazil's Supreme Court that the former president will relinquish the firearm found with his security detail as part of his plea to remain under house arrest. The legal team presented this concession to Minister Alexandre de Moraes, emphasizing Bolsonaro's health concerns and a police report that acknowledged the weapon's registration.

The defense reiterated that Bolsonaro has no interest in reclaiming the seized firearm, a stance previously communicated and noted by the Prosecutor-General's Office. This move comes as the court deliberates on extending Bolsonaro's house arrest, with a decision expected after the defense submits its final arguments within 48 hours.

“

O peticionário reitera não possuir qualquer interesse na restituição do armamento apreendido, circunstância já anteriormente informada nos autos e igualmente registrada pela Procuradoria-Geral da República.

Previously, Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet had recommended house arrest but advised against returning the seized weapon. A police report indicated that while Bolsonaro's security guard could be indicted for possessing the restricted firearm, the evidence did not directly implicate Bolsonaro in illegal possession. The defense argued that the police findings largely supported their position.

Bolsonaro's lawyers also previously claimed the firearm's firing pin was removed without his knowledge, a decision made by his security and family to prevent accidents due to his use of psychiatric medication. However, police tests reportedly found the pistol capable of firing.

“

Os elementos agora produzidos, portanto, apenas reforçam as razões já deduzidas pela defesa na manifestação anteriormente apresentada acerca da inexistência de falta grave, à regularidade do registro da arma e à completa excepcionalidade da situação submetida à apreciação deste Juízo.