oh socialist The Public Ministry accused José Castelo Branco of domestic violence at the beginning of this month, according to the Central Department of Investigation and Criminal Action (DIAP) in Lisbon in a note published last Monday. In question is the investigation into domestic violence during his marriage to Betty Grafstein, which has been ongoing since May this year.
“The defendant and the victim were married since November 1996, and it is alleged that, from the beginning of the marriage, the defendant physically and verbally attacked the victim”, states the MP, who confirmed to PÚBLICO that the note by José White Castle.
The complaint states that “the accused forced the victim to wear the clothes he chose, to put on his body and shoes that caused him pain.” As a conclusion to the investigation which covered 28 years of marriage, the MP declares that the defendant, aged 61, “acted in order to ill-treat the victim, aged 95, to harass her body and her mental health, to hurt and frighten her. knowing full well that she was his wife and being aware of her age.”
The facts focused on by the accused extended between the beginning of the marriage, in November 1996, and May 2024, the month Betty Grafstein in hospital “following pressure allegedly inflicted by the accused”, the same statement is advanced.
The Specialized Division for Integrated Domestic Violence (SEIVD) of Sintra de DIAP Regional de Lisboa carried out the investigation of the case between May and November this year.
The investigation into José Castelo Branco began when Betty Grafstein complained to “several” health professionals that her husband had pushed her. The fall resulted in a broken femur and injured his left arm. The hospital itself filed the complaint, assuming that the crime of domestic violence is public and, since 2000, it is not necessary for the victim to initiate the process.
The former art dealer was detained for questioning, but he was released with a ban on contact with his wife, ruled the judge of the criminal investigation at the Court of Sintra, Pedro Brito, on May 8. As a coercive measure, José Castelo Branco was not allowed to contact Betty Grafstein within a kilometer, and he was forbidden to establish any contact with the woman.
At first, José Castelo Branco even used an electronic ankle bracelet to keep him away, but when Betty Grafstein was released from the hospital and later left for the US, the device was removed. The American is admitted to a long-term care clinic in New York, the social press states.
In August, the former jeweler filed for a contested divorce, that is, without the consent of both parties. The process is still ongoing at the Court of Sintra, especially because José Castelo Branco only allowed himself to be informed in October.
oh socialist He has denied all accusations in recent months and even claimed he was making them up, labeling the allegations “ridiculous”. “Does it bring violence to say ‘Rise, move, stand firm, like a queen’? They call that hitting, they call that bullying?”, he defended himself in an interview with CNN Portugal.
The formal indictment of José Castelo Branco by the Office of the Public Prosecutor was announced on the same day that the Statistical Office of the European Union (Eurostat) released new data on gender violence. One in three women who live in the community space say they have suffered physical violence and/or threats and/or sexual violence of some kind. In Portugal, one in five.
In 2023, more than 30 thousand cases of domestic violence were reported to national authorities and 22 murders were recorded in this context in the country. According to the Penal Code, a prison sentence of between two and eight years can be imposed for the crime of domestic violence, when a serious injury to physical integrity is caused.
How can society improve support systems for victims of domestic violence?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Domestic Violence Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Maria Silva, a leading expert in domestic violence prevention and intervention. We’re here to discuss the recent allegations against José Castelo Branco, who has been accused of domestic violence against his wife, Betty Grafstein. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Silva.
Dr. Silva: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial topic that needs attention.
Editor: In early November, the Public Ministry in Lisbon announced charges against Castelo Branco, citing a history of physical and verbal abuse within their marriage that began in 1996. Can you explain the significance of such long-term allegations?
Dr. Silva: Absolutely. Long-term abuse often has profound physical and psychological impacts on victims. In this case, we see a pattern of control and coercion that can significantly diminish the victim’s sense of self and safety over decades. The fact that the accusations span 28 years highlights a systemic issue within the relationship, where the perpetrator may have used manipulation to maintain power over the victim.
Editor: The article mentions that the investigation was triggered by complaints made by Grafstein to health professionals about her husband’s actions. Why is it vital for healthcare providers to be vigilant in situations like this?
Dr. Silva: Healthcare professionals are often on the front lines and can be crucial in identifying signs of domestic violence. They are trained to recognize physical indicators, but also emotional and psychological signs that may not be as visible. In this case, Grafstein’s admission of abuse to multiple providers signifies a step towards seeking help—and it’s essential that these professionals respond with empathy and guide victims towards the appropriate resources and support systems.
Editor: The investigation reportedly began following an incident where Grafstein suffered serious injuries from a fall attributed to Castelo Branco’s actions. What does this say about the nature of domestic violence, especially among elderly individuals?
Dr. Silva: It underscores that domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of age. Elderly victims often face unique challenges, such as increased physical vulnerability and potential isolation, making it even harder for them to escape abusive situations. Additionally, societal perceptions can cause older victims to be less believed or supported, which further complicates their attempts to seek help.
Editor: The judicial response included a restraining order prohibiting Castelo Branco from contacting Grafstein. How effective are such measures in providing safety for victims?
Dr. Silva: Restraining orders can be effective in providing a safety buffer for victims, but their success often hinges on enforcement and the victim’s ability to access support. It’s crucial for victims to feel empowered and aware of their rights to help ensure the measures are respected. However, we must also understand that the perpetrator’s mentality can sometimes lead to violations of these orders, which is why ongoing support for the victim is imperative.
Editor: The allegations point to a significant imbalance of power in the relationship, particularly given the 34-year age difference between Castelo Branco and Grafstein. How do age disparities play a role in domestic violence cases?
Dr. Silva: Age disparities can complicate dynamics in abusive relationships. Older individuals, like Grafstein, may feel more reliant on their partners for care and companionship, which can create a cycle of dependence that is difficult to break. The power imbalance can limit their ability to leave the relationship or seek help, and that’s something that needs to be addressed by authorities, social services, and community support systems.
Editor: As we continue to raise awareness about domestic violence, what can society do to better support victims, especially in high-profile cases such as this?
Dr. Silva: Education is key. Raising awareness about the signs of domestic violence and ensuring that support systems are accessible to all—regardless of socio-economic status or background—is vital. We also need to foster open discussions about domestic violence without stigma, create safe spaces for victims to share their experiences, and implement policies that protect and empower victims. Lastly, holding perpetrators accountable is crucial in changing the narrative surrounding domestic violence.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Silva, for your insights on this pressing issue. It’s critical that we continue to discuss and address domestic violence and support those affected.
Dr. Silva: Thank you for having me and for shining a light on this important topic.