Judge caught drinking wine and smoking in hearing says 'STJ, STF and Moraes are all corrupt'

A judge in Brazil's Minas Gerais state, Milton Lívio Lemos Salles, faces an investigation after being filmed consuming wine and smoking during a virtual court hearing. The incident led to his immediate suspension from judicial duties by the Corregedoria-Geral de Justiça of Minas Gerais.

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I'm tired, very tired. I'm having wine, drinking my coffee, and enjoying my wife. I know a lot about this court.

Following the publication of the video, Salles recorded a video message accusing the state court, the Superior Court of Justice (STJ), the Supreme Federal Court (STF), and Minister Alexandre de Moraes of corruption. He claimed to have "knowledge of the cause" regarding his accusations, citing 36 years in the legal profession. Salles specifically mentioned alleged corruption involving colleagues at the Minas Gerais court and the purchase of hybrid vehicles.

The Corregedoria-Geral de Justiça's decision to suspend Salles preempted a meeting of the Tribunal's Special Body, which was scheduled to discuss measures regarding the incident. The investigation aims to address the judge's conduct during the hearing and his subsequent public accusations.

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You shame me. Do you know why? The court doesn't exist.

Salles, who is the son of a former TJMG judge, challenged anyone to confront him publicly, stating his availability for debates on television or in the media. The courts and Minister Moraes mentioned in his accusations have been contacted for comment.

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And if anyone wants to confront me, on any TV, on Jornal Nacional, whatever it may be, I am available. Thank you very much.