The military court of the Brazilian state of São paulo this Thursday ordered the preventive arrest of the police officer who threw a man from a bridge during an approach to the city of São Paulo.
The coercive measure was implemented following the statement given by the military police to the Internal Affairs of the Military Police.
On Monday night, the local media released images of three agents from the Military Police of São Paulo, in an operation on a bridge, in which one of the agents lifts a motorcycle from the ground and leans against a wall and a room.the police seem to be holding a man from behind, who throws him from the top of the bridge for no apparent reason.
The Military Police officer is 29 years old accused of committing a random violent attack by throwing the victim off the bridge in the neighborhood of Cidade Ademar, an area in the south of the capital city of São Paulo.
The attack generated a wave of criticism from social movements,which denounced the increase in cases of violence by security agents since the governor of São Paulo,Tarcísio de Freitas,began his administration on January 1,2023.
Freitas, who was a minister in the government of former President Jair Bolsonaro (2019-2022) and publicly defended that the police must act tough against crime and minimize, on other occasions, complaints of abuse of the police, given the negative consequences of the cases. of police abuse and violence recorded in the last few days, social media is used to say that cases of violence caused by state security agents will be investigated and punished.
“A policeman is on the street to fight crime and make peopel feel safer, whoever shoots in the back, It is clear that anyone who goes to the absurdity of throwing someone off the bridge is not obliged to wear the uniform“, wrote the governor of São Paulo.
At least 768 people where killed between january and November during police operations in São Pauloan increase of 66% compared to the first ten months of 2023.Compared to the whole of last year, the increase is 42%.
How can community engagement influence police reform adn accountability in Brazil?
Interview between time.news Editor and Law enforcement Expert on Police Violence in São Paulo
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today. Recent events in São Paulo have highlighted serious concerns about police violence, especially with the recent case of an officer throwing a man off a bridge. Can you provide some context regarding this incident?
Expert (E): Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The incident involving the police officer who threw a man off a bridge during an operation has sparked widespread outrage. It exemplifies a troubling trend in São Paulo’s approach to policing, particularly since the administration of Governor Tarcísio de Freitas began in January 2023. This specific case has raised alarm not only for its brutality but also for the perceived increase in police violence overall.
TNE: You mentioned an increase in police violence. Recent reports indicate that at least 768 individuals were killed during police operations in São Paulo between January and November 2023, showing a 66% rise compared to the previous year. What does this statistic reveal about the current state of law enforcement in Brazil?
E: These numbers are indeed alarming. The 66% increase in police-related deaths signals a concerning escalation in what some would describe as a militarized approach to crime fighting. It also raises questions about accountability within law enforcement agencies and whether current policies are effective in promoting public safety without infringing on civil rights.
TNE: Governor Freitas has acknowledged these incidents, stating, “anyone who goes to the absurdity of throwing someone off the bridge is not obliged to wear the uniform.” What implications does this statement have for police reform in brazil?
E: The Governor’s statement reflects an awareness of the issue, but it also suggests a struggle between the need for police accountability and the political pressure to adopt a hardline stance against crime. It’s critical that this acknowledgment translates into tangible reform efforts. This could include enhanced training for officers, systemic changes in how operations are conducted, and stronger oversight to prevent abuses of power.
TNE: Social movements have been vocal about the rise in violence by security agents since January. How importent is public reaction in influencing policy changes in this context?
E: Public reaction is paramount. social movements and digital activism can mobilize widespread public support and compel policymakers to take action. The outcries for accountability serve as a crucial reminder that violence, especially state-sanctioned violence, cannot be tolerated. Grassroots movements can effectively bring issues to the forefront, encouraging both political leaders and law enforcement agencies to reconsider their strategies.
TNE: For our readers who are concerned about these developments, what practical advice can you offer to engage effectively in community safety initiatives?
E: First, becoming informed about local law enforcement practices and policies is vital. Participating in community forums and supporting local organizations that advocate for police reform can amplify your voice. Additionally, building coalitions with various stakeholders—including civic leaders, social justice organizations, and law enforcement—can foster dialog necessary for meaningful change.using social media to raise awareness about these issues can help keep them in the public eye.
TNE: Thank you for your insights.What do you think the future holds for policing in São Paulo, given the growing scrutiny and demands for reform?
E: The future will largely depend on how leaders respond to current public sentiments and the mounting evidence of police violence. If officials prioritize openness and accountability, we could see a movement toward reform that prioritizes community safety without resorting to excessive force. However, if the system remains resistant to change, we can expect continued unrest and demands for justice, which could further strain trust between the community and law enforcement.
TNE: thank you again for your expertise. It’s vital for our readers to stay informed on such critical issues impacting public safety and trust in law enforcement.