The Array of Legal Threats Facing Brazil's Former President Jair Bolsonaro
Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro has been under investigation since his early days in office,
and the number of cases has grown since his failed reelection bid in 2022.
Authorities are probing a range of allegations, from inciting an uprising against his successor to harassing
a humpback whale while on a jet-ski. While the marine mammal investigation was dropped,
Bolsonaro has been declared ineligible for office by an electoral court,
and numerous other probes could lead to criminal charges.
The Supreme Court will decide the outcomes of more than five major investigations,
which could result in imprisonment, house arrest, or a ban from political activity.
Bolsonaro denies any wrongdoing, claiming political persecution, but acknowledges
the serious legal threats he faces. Here's a look at the major cases:Vaccination Fraud
Bolsonaro is accused of directing an official to falsify public health records to show he and his daughter
received the COVID-19 vaccine to meet U.S. entry requirements. Bolsonaro opposed the vaccine during the
pandemic, framing it as a personal choice and denying he was vaccinated.
Charges: Criminal association and falsifying public records, with maximum penalties of 4 and 12 years in prison,
respectively.
Status:The Supreme Court has sent the indictment to the prosecutor-general, who is consulting U.S.
authorities about whether Bolsonaro used the forged document for entry.
Saudi Jewels Federal Police are investigating whether Bolsonaro directed
officials to smuggle luxury jewelry from Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and
prevent its incorporation into the presidential collection.
Charges: Money laundering and criminal association.
Status Bolsonaro has been indicted, but specifics of the charges are not publicly confirmed.
Capital Uprising
Bolsonaro's involvement in a conspiracy to remain in office after losing the 2022 election,
including whether he incited the January 8, 2022 riot that damaged the Supreme Court and presidential palace.
Status:The investigation continues, with several of Bolsonaro's
supporters and allies already convicted and imprisoned.
Electoral Misdeeds
The highest electoral court found Bolsonaro used government resources to promote his reelection and undermine trust in the voting system.
Ruling: Ineligible for office until 2030.
Status:Bolsonaro's appeal was denied, and additional related cases are pending.
Pandemic Sabotage
Bolsonaro is under investigation for inciting crimes against public health during the COVID-19 pandemic,
including discouraging mask use and spreading false information about vaccines.
The investigation is ongoing, and a Senate inquiry recommended nine criminal charges, which
the new prosecutor-general may reconsider.
Fake News, Digital Militia
An investigation into a network spreading defamatory fake news and threats
against Supreme Court justices has included Bolsonaro as a target since 2021.
This extends to allegations of a group within his presidential
palace producing content to undermine the rule of law.
Status:Both investigations are ongoing.
The outcomes of these legal battles will significantly impact Bolsonaro's
future in politics and his personal freedom..