According to Argentina’s Ole newspaper, a Brazilian court recently ruled against the request made by lawyers for former football star Robinho. The lawyers had sought to reclassify Robinho’s rape conviction from an “atrocious crime” to a “common crime.” Robinho was found guilty of a rape case that occurred in Italy in 2013 and was sentenced to nine years in prison. He is currently serving his sentence in a prison in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.
Robinho’s lawyers argued that under Brazilian law, his offense should not be categorized as an “atrocious crime,” which could pave the way for a reduced sentence. However, Brazilian judge Luis Santos clearly stated in his ruling that rape itself is considered an “atrocious crime,” regardless of whether it is committed individually or with others.
The judge also pointed out that at the time Robinho committed the crime—in 2013—rape was already defined as an “atrocious crime” under Brazilian law. This means that even though the crime took place abroad, this definition still applies.
In an earlier application, Robinho’s lawyers claimed that although Brazil’s Superior Court of Justice (STJ) had recognized the Italian court’s verdict, viewing the crime as an “atrocious crime” required more direct legal grounds. Lawyer Mario Rossi Valle explained that STJ recognition does not automatically equate to confirmation of the severity of the crime, as such severity should be based on clear legal provisions.
However, the latest ruling by the Brazilian court upheld the original classification of Robinho’s offense, indicating that even within an international legal framework, Brazil maintains a firm stance on the punishment of serious crimes like rape.
Nonetheless, Robinho has not been completely cut off from the outside world while in prison. It is reported that he is participating in TV repair and reading courses offered by the prison to pass the time during his incarceration.