Brazilian Sertanejo duo Warley and Michel's recent experience with the law has left their fans both concerned and relieved. The pair were arrested on November 15, 2023, following allegations of purchasing and altering a stolen vehicle, but they returned to their hometown with open arms just two days later.
Upon their release on November 17, they were met with jubilant celebrations by friends and supporters. A video shared on social media captures the moment, complete with fireworks and festive gatherings to welcome them home. "We arrived, thank God! I can't believe what we've been through—it's like the plot of a movie," said Warley, expressing disbelief over the recent events.
The trouble began on Sunday when Michel was stopped by the Polícia Rodoviária Federal (PRF) during their trip from Goiás to Tocantins at kilometer 192 of BR-153, driving their Toyota Corolla, which was registered to Warley. The vehicle had previously been stolen from Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, around one year ago and was alleged to have been circulating with cloned plates.
Warley claims he purchased the vehicle for R$ 25,000 (approximately $5,000) from someone he considered a childhood friend, believing it was legitimate. He noted, "I bought it from someone who said he was my childhood friend, but I will prove my innocence to the end. I have all the documentation and conversations pertaining to the purchase. The previous owners will have to take responsibility for this major trouble they brought me."
The police report indicated they are suspected of "culpable receptation," which means they may have unknowingly bought stolen property due to the low price and prior theft record of the car. Detective Sandro Leal Delta, involved in the investigation, clarified, "They purchased the vehicle at a price reasonable enough to suspect it was likely illicit, as it was previously reported stolen. It is also under investigation for vehicle tampering."
Unable to afford the bail on their own, the duo's friends rallied support, leading to more than R$ 15,000 being raised. This figure comprised R$ 10,000 for legal fees and R$ 5,000 for bail. Warley expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, "I didn’t have to pay anything. I have so many friends who care about the Warley and Michel duo; they know our integrity.”
During the three days of incarceration, Michel maintained his innocence, saying, "I fell 'like a fool' just because I was driving the car. I didn’t know of its prior history." The duo was treated well during their detention, with Warley asserting, "The PRF did their job correctly, treating us very politely."
Since their release, both singers have reaffirmed their commitment to proving their innocence, vowing to clarify any misunderstandings surrounding the vehicle's legality. Warley insisted, "I will prove my innocence until the end. I have all the conversations, as well as the details of my purchase. Therefore, it’s imperative they understand the entire situation."
The investigation remains open, as authorities continue to examine the origins of the vehicle and whether additional parties may be implicated. Back home, the artists are eager to resume their careers, hoping to return to the spotlight soon amid the saga of their unexpected legal troubles.
Despite the dramatic events, the community's support has been instrumental for Warley and Michel as they navigate through this challenging chapter of their lives. With their spirits high and determination to clear their names, both are focused on making music and continuing to connect with their fans now more than ever.
