Brazil Defends Extradition of Carla Zambelli in Italian Court

Brazil's Attorney General's Office (AGU) has submitted a defense to Italy's Court of Cassation, the highest court, regarding a second extradition request for former congresswoman Carla Zambelli. The case, currently under seal, is expected to be heard on July 1.

This second request stems from Zambelli's conviction for illegal restraint and illegal firearm possession. The incident occurred shortly before the 2022 elections when she allegedly pursued a journalist with a firearm in São Paulo. Zambelli was sentenced to five years and three months in prison.

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Brazil observes the parameters established by the Extradition Treaty between the two countries and international norms for cooperation in criminal matters.

Last month, the Italian court rejected a previous extradition request concerning Zambelli's alleged invasion of the National Council of Justice (CNJ) systems. The court cited bias on the part of Minister Alexandre de Moraes, who served in a dual role as both judge and a party affected by the alleged crime. A false arrest warrant against Moraes was reportedly inserted during the system invasion.

The AGU has affirmed Brazil's adherence to the extradition treaty between the two nations and international legal cooperation norms. The office reiterated Brazil's commitment to international legal cooperation as essential for penal jurisdiction and combating impunity. Guarantees required by Italian authorities include Zambelli serving her sentence in a Brasília women's penitentiary and having access to legal counsel, family, and diplomatic representation.

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Permanent commitment of the Brazilian State to international legal cooperation, an essential instrument for the effectiveness of criminal jurisdiction, the fulfillment of judicial decisions, and the fight against impunity.