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๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ท Brazil /Conflict & Security

Buzzi's defense presents erectile dysfunction report, seeks acquittal in sexual harassment case

From Folha de S.Paulo · () Portuguese

Translated from Portuguese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified In the courts
  • The defense for Marco Buzzi, a minister at Brazil's Superior Court of Justice (STJ), is seeking his acquittal on sexual harassment and molestation charges.
  • Lawyers argue the accusations are false, citing contradictions in victim testimonies and a lack of corroborating evidence.
  • A urological report indicating erectile dysfunction has been presented as evidence of Buzzi's innocence.

Marco Buzzi's defense team is urging the Superior Court of Justice (STJ) to acquit the minister of sexual harassment and molestation charges. The lawyers contend that the allegations are fabricated and that the victims' testimonies contain inconsistencies and lack independent corroboration. They suggest that the accusations may stem from a conspiracy among the accusers, motivated by revenge, misunderstandings, or personal gain.

The defense also claims that "misinterpretations" of Buzzi's words and actions may have been exaggerated into "false episodes" of harassment. As part of their argument for innocence, the legal team has submitted a urological report detailing erectile dysfunction, which they believe supports Buzzi's claims.

Buzzi faces accusations from two women. The first complaint, filed in January, came from the daughter of a couple known to Buzzi, who alleged he grabbed her during a beach outing in Santa Catarina. The second complaint was filed by a contract employee who worked for Buzzi, claiming harassment occurred over three years in various locations within the minister's office, including his private chamber, a storage area, a hallway, and the library. This second accuser's account was reportedly supported by other court employees to whom she had confided.

The STJ is reportedly aiming to conclude the trial by the first half of August, as the incoming president, Minister Luis Felipe Salomรฃo, does not wish to handle the case during his tenure. Buzzi's defense team presented their final arguments after the victims and the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office (MPF) had made their statements. The MPF has recommended Buzzi's compulsory retirement, finding that the evidence indicates he violated principles of personal and professional integrity, as well as honor and decorum, which are essential for a magistrate. The MPF acknowledged potential inconsistencies but maintained that the accusers' statements were firm, coherent, and aligned with the case's evidence.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Folha de S.Paulo in Portuguese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.