Lawyer João Neto Arrested After Alleged Assault Caught On Video

A video showing the alleged assault of lawyer João Neto against a woman has sparked outrage and concern in Maceió, Brazil. The incident took place on April 14, 2025, in the corridor of the apartment building where Neto resides, located in the Ponta Verde neighborhood. Following the release of the video, which was captured by surveillance cameras, the lawyer was arrested after neighbors reported the incident to the police.

The footage reveals a disturbing scene: a woman dressed in an orange dress is seen being pushed out of an apartment. Blood can be seen on the floor, apparently coming from her face. In the video, a man, believed to be João Neto, offers the woman a cloth to address her injury, which she initially refuses. However, he then forces the cloth against her face. Shortly thereafter, another man is seen entering the scene, placing two pairs of shoes on the floor while Neto, dressed in a blue shirt and jeans, puts on one pair.

According to the Integrated Coastal Police Operation (Oplit), the woman was taken to a hospital for medical treatment following the incident. João Neto was located near the hospital shortly after, riding a motorcycle with an acquaintance. Oplit coordinator Adjeferson Pessoa noted that Neto was circling around the health unit when the police apprehended him. "He was on a motorcycle with someone he knew, making rounds around the hospital," Pessoa stated.

Neto, who has gained significant attention on social media for sharing legal advice, especially for individuals facing legal troubles, now finds himself at the center of a serious criminal investigation. The identity of the victim and the extent of her injuries have not been disclosed by the authorities. Furthermore, police have yet to confirm whether there was any prior history of violence between the two parties involved.

As news of the incident spread, reactions on social media were swift and intense. Many users expressed shock and indignation at the allegations against a lawyer who had built a reputation advocating for individual rights and the rights of the accused. The case has raised questions about the conduct of professionals in positions of trust and the potential for abuse of power.

Currently, the investigation is ongoing, and local authorities are expected to release further details in the coming days. The lawyer's defense team has not made any public comments regarding the arrest or the allegations. As the story unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding domestic violence cases and the societal implications of such incidents.

In light of this incident, many are calling for a closer examination of how such cases are handled, emphasizing the need for support systems for victims and accountability for perpetrators. The community's response underscores a growing awareness of the importance of addressing domestic violence and ensuring that justice is served.

As the investigation continues, the legal community and the public alike will be watching closely. João Neto, who once stood as a figure of legal guidance, now faces a challenging path ahead as he confronts serious allegations that could have far-reaching consequences for his career and personal life.