Brazilian prosecutors concluded their opening arguments Wednesday in the trial of five men accused of the 2018 murder of Rio de Janeiro City Councilwoman Marielle Franco, alleging the defendants were part of a “powerful criminal organization” and that the killing was ordered to eliminate a political threat to illicit real estate dealings.
The trial, taking place at the Supreme Federal Court (STF) in Brasília, centers on the claim that Franco’s activism opposing the activities of paramilitary groups, known as ‘milícias,’ led to her targeted assassination. Prosecutors presented evidence suggesting the defendants sought to illegally acquire public lands in Rio de Janeiro, while Franco advocated for their use in affordable housing projects.
According to the prosecution, the accused were attempting to fraudulently regularize illegally occupied public land, transferring ownership to themselves through a network of shell companies and falsified documents. Vice Prosecutor General Hindemburgo Chateaubriand presented evidence including deeds for at least 89 properties in areas controlled by the ‘milícias,’ allegedly registered to the Brazão brothers, key figures in the case.
The prosecution alleges that Franco’s political work, specifically her opposition to the ‘milícias’ control over land and resources, made her a target. The defendants are accused of homicide, aggravated murder, and robbery with violence, charges that carry potential sentences ranging from 15 years in prison to the death penalty.
The STF’s First Panel will resume the hearing on Thursday to deliver a final verdict and, if convicted, determine the appropriate sentencing. The initial day of the trial was dedicated to the presentation of the case report, the prosecutor general’s arguments, and the defense statements of the five accused.
Separately, in Jalisco, Mexico, authorities confirmed the death of Fiscalía commander Mario Tejada following an attack in the vicinity of Patria and Federalismo avenues. The Fiscalía de Jalisco has not released further details regarding the circumstances of the attack.
In Sinaloa, Mexico, authorities are investigating the murder of a 34-year-old farmworker in Villa Juárez, Navolato, as a targeted attack. The Fiscalía de Sinaloa is pursuing the investigation.
