Brazilian man targeted in probe over alleged threats to Senator Flávio Bolsonaro

A man from Juiz de Fora, Brazil, is facing legal scrutiny after allegedly making threats against Senator Flávio Bolsonaro on social media. The individual became the target of a search and seizure operation on Saturday and was taken in for questioning.

The alleged threat surfaced in a Facebook post concerning Bolsonaro's upcoming campaign event in Juiz de Fora. The suspect reportedly wrote, "this time leave it to me," accompanied by knife emojis. This message prompted swift action from the Legislative Police, responsible for Bolsonaro's security.

Following a request from the Legislative Police, the man's digital communications were ordered to be unsealed. He is now prohibited from approaching or contacting Senator Bolsonaro, including through social media. The court has also imposed restrictions preventing the suspect from going near Bolsonaro's residence, workplace, or any public events he attends, not just in Juiz de Fora.

Authorities identified the threat on Thursday, and by Friday, Meta provided information about the user responsible for the post. The Legislative Police then petitioned the court for the search and seizure order, the digital privacy breach, and protective measures. The suspect, who owns a tattoo studio, has a record of eight previous arrests for assault, bodily harm, and threats.