On Monday, April 14, 2025, a serious incident unfolded in Maceió, Brazil, when João Neto, a 47-year-old criminal lawyer and former military police officer, was arrested for allegedly assaulting his partner in his apartment. The situation escalated dramatically, resulting in the woman being taken to a private hospital with injuries to her chin.
According to reports, the victim stated that she was forcibly removed from her home and pushed by Neto, causing her to fall and sustain a deep cut that required three stitches. The incident was not isolated; the victim revealed that she had previously been assaulted by Neto, including a significant incident in October of the previous year that led to her hospitalization.
The assault was captured by security cameras in the apartment building, showing the woman exiting the apartment covered in blood, visibly shaken and attempting to distance herself from Neto. Eyewitnesses reported hearing screams and sounds of aggression, prompting neighbors to alert the police.
Upon arrival, officers from the Integrated Coastal Police Operation (Oplit) were informed that the woman had already been taken to the hospital. They later located Neto riding a motorcycle without a license plate and in the wrong direction near the hospital. Despite presenting his Order of Attorneys of Brazil (OAB) identification, he was taken into custody at the Central de Flagrantes, where he awaits a custody hearing.
In a statement released by his defense team, they acknowledged awareness of the allegations but indicated that they would provide a detailed response during the custody hearing scheduled for Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The defense emphasized their commitment to preserving Neto's fundamental rights, particularly the presumption of innocence, and expressed confidence that the truth would emerge through a thorough investigation.
"The defense of lawyer João Neto comes to the public to inform that it is aware of the reports circulating regarding the alleged commission of a crime within the scope of domestic violence; however, this matter will be clarified starting tomorrow in the custody hearing, even though this is not the appropriate environment for a discussion of merit," the statement read.
The victim, who had traveled from Arapiraca to live with Neto in Maceió, stated that the couple had been in a relationship for approximately two years. During this time, she had endured multiple instances of violence, which she detailed in her statements to the police.
The police investigation revealed that at the time of the assault, there were other individuals present in the apartment who were providing automation services. One witness reported that the couple had fallen during a confrontation, with the woman slipping and hitting her chin on the floor. However, the victim maintains that she was pushed during an argument, leading to her injuries.
Images from the building's security footage depict the woman bleeding and in distress, with Neto attempting to apply a cloth to her injury while she tries to back away from him. The footage also shows blood pooling on the floor of the corridor, indicative of the violent altercation that had taken place.
Following the incident, the woman was taken to a local hospital, where she received medical attention. Meanwhile, Neto was apprehended nearby, leading to his detention for domestic violence and bodily harm under Brazil's Maria da Penha Law, which aims to combat domestic violence against women.
As the case continues to unfold, it has garnered significant attention on social media, where Neto boasts a following of over two million users. Known for his controversial posts and legal analyses, the lawyer's public persona sharply contrasts with the serious allegations he now faces.
The legal proceedings will move forward with the custody hearing, where both the prosecution and defense will present their arguments. The outcome of this case could have significant implications not only for Neto but also for the broader conversation surrounding domestic violence in Brazil.
As the situation develops, it underscores the critical need for ongoing discussions about domestic violence, the support available for victims, and the legal ramifications for perpetrators. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing such issues within society, ensuring that victims feel empowered to come forward and seek justice.
