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A legal team is disputing allegations in a case involving a 17-year-traditional girl and several young men in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The defense for João Gabriel Bertho vehemently denies any wrongdoing occurred, stating that two previous requests for preventative detention were denied by the courts.
According to statements released by the defense, text messages between two 17-year-old boys indicate the prior knowledge and expectation of other young men being present at the location where the incident allegedly took place. The girl involved reportedly told police she allowed the other young men to be in the room although she was with her friend, and also stated that other requests she made were fulfilled.
The defense also contests the fact that Bertho, described as a student and professional athlete with no prior history of violence, was not given the opportunity to provide a statement to police. They further question why the image of the girl leaving the encounter with a smile and a hug was not considered during the investigation.
This case is drawing attention to the complexities of investigating allegations and the importance of due process. The defense argues that key evidence, including the girl’s own statements and the context of the encounter, have been overlooked.
