Brazilian Hairdresser Sentenced to 14 Years for Involvement in January Riots

In a controversial ruling, a Brazilian woman has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for her actions during the January 2023 riots in Brasilia. Debora Rodrigues, who wrote a message on a statue in protest, claims she was caught up in the moment and did not engage in violent acts. The case raises questions about political persecution and freedom of expression in Brazil.

A Brazilian hairdresser has been sentenced to 14 years in prison due to her role in the January 2023 riots in Brasilia, an event tied to a broader attempted coup against President Lula da Silva. Debora Rodrigues, 39, sparked outrage and debate after inscribing "You lost, idiot" on a statue during the chaos instigated by supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro, making headlines for her actions labeled by some as the "lipstick coup."

The Supreme Court's ruling, led by Justice Cristiano Zanin, highlighted that Rodrigues was not merely charged for the graffiti but was also implicated in serious offenses, including property destruction and membership in a criminal organization. The unrest saw thousands of Bolsonaro's supporters vandalizing government establishments after he lost the electoral battle.

During her trial, Rodrigues maintained she had not engaged in any violence, pleading for understanding as she expressed regret for her impulsive actions. "I have never done anything illegal in my life," she stated, describing her experience as a protester who was unprepared for the event’s magnitude. Her legal team argued that Rodrigues was swept up in the incident and did not actively participate in the rioting.

However, presiding Justice Alexandre de Moraes emphasized her active involvement and collaboration with the disruptive demonstrators, referring to her own admissions during police questioning. The conviction has reignited debate among Bolsonaro supporters, many of whom see Rodrigues as a symbol of political victimization, asserting that the Supreme Court is exercising too much influence over political matters.

Rodrigues's case has gained traction on social media, sparking campaigns for her release and calls for amnesty for all who took part in the riots. Bolsonaro himself has publicly commented on the matter, urging forgiveness for those involved. Meanwhile, he faces his own legal troubles related to the unrest, with potential sentences exceeding 40 years if convicted.