In a shocking incident that has captured public attention, criminal lawyer and social media influencer João Neto was arrested on Monday, April 14, 2025, in Maceió, Alagoas, on suspicion of domestic violence. The arrest took place in the Jatiúca neighborhood, where Neto allegedly assaulted a woman in his apartment.
According to reports from the Integrated Coastal Police Operation (Oplit) and the 1st Battalion of the Military Police of Alagoas (1st BPM), the arrest followed a call from residents who heard screams and disturbances coming from Neto's residence. The police responded promptly to the emergency call, leading to the apprehension of the lawyer.
The victim, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was taken to a local hospital for treatment of her injuries. Following the incident, she was also brought to the police station to provide a testimony regarding the events that transpired. The authorities have not released specific details about her condition.
João Neto, originally from Salvador, is known for his significant social media presence, boasting over two million followers. He gained popularity by sharing legal advice and tips for individuals facing judicial issues. His influence on platforms like Instagram has made him a recognizable figure in the legal community.
After the incident, police located Neto riding a motorcycle near the hospital where the victim was receiving treatment. He was reportedly accompanied by another person on the motorcycle and was performing maneuvers in the vicinity of the health facility. This led the police to apprehend him and bring him to the Central de Flagrantes for further questioning.
As the investigation unfolds, Neto's defense team has issued a statement through attorneys Cícero Pedroza, Lucas Amorim, Vinicius Guido, and Minghan Chen. They acknowledged the allegations and expressed their commitment to clarifying the circumstances during the custody hearing scheduled for Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The defense emphasized that this is not the appropriate time to discuss the merits of the case, urging patience as the legal process continues.
The incident raises significant concerns about domestic violence, a pervasive issue that affects many individuals across various demographics. According to recent statistics, domestic violence remains a critical problem in Brazil, prompting calls for more stringent measures to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
Public reaction to Neto's arrest has been mixed, with many expressing shock given his public persona as a legal advisor and influencer. Social media users have taken to various platforms to voice their opinions, some defending Neto until more information becomes available, while others condemn the alleged actions and call for justice for the victim.
As the case progresses, it will be closely monitored by both the media and the public. Legal experts have noted that the outcome of this case could have broader implications for how domestic violence cases are handled in Brazil, especially given Neto's high profile. The legal community is watching to see if this case will lead to increased awareness and advocacy for victims of domestic violence.
While the investigation remains active, the police have stated that they will provide updates as new information emerges. The case is currently under the jurisdiction of the Alagoas authorities, who are tasked with ensuring a thorough and fair investigation.
In the meantime, Neto remains in custody, and the legal proceedings will determine the next steps in this troubling situation. The public is left to grapple with the implications of this incident and what it means for discussions surrounding domestic violence in society.
