Valdemar Costa Neto's wife calls investigation 'criminosa,' not criminal

Dana Costa, president of PL Mulher Mogi das Cruzes, has vehemently denounced the investigation into her husband, Valdemar Costa Neto, the president of the Liberal Party (PL). She described the probe, which alleges he improperly directed parliamentary amendments, as "criminosa" and "indecent," rather than a legitimate criminal inquiry.

The Federal Police contend that Valdemar Costa Neto, despite lacking a mandate, allocated resources according to his personal interests, indicating potential embezzlement. Investigators suggest he may have been the ultimate beneficiary of these diverted public funds. This assertion follows a Supreme Court order by Minister Flávio Dino to freeze R$119 million in assets belonging to the PL president, with approximately R$104 million already disbursed by the federal government.

The investigation, Operation Transparência, initially targeted an advisor linked to former Speaker of the House Arthur Lira. However, the report submitted to Minister Dino indicates Valdemar Costa Neto possessed the autonomy to direct commission amendments based on his position as party leader. His lawyers argue the decision is based on "fragile premises" and constitutes an "undue criminalization of political-party activity."