Former Officers Sentenced in Franco Murder Case

Two former Brazilian police officers, Ronnie Lessa and Elcio de Queiroz, were sentenced to 78 years and nine months and 59 years and eight months, respectively, for the murders of Rio de Janeiro city council member Marielle Franco and her driver Anderson Gomes in 2018. Both men confessed to the crime through plea deals, with Lessa identified as the shooter and de Queiroz as the driver, during a drive-by shooting that highlighted political corruption and violence in Brazil. Franco, a Black and gay progressive council member, was a prominent human rights activist whose death sparked nationwide protests and drew international attention. Despite the lengthy sentences, Brazilian law restricts them to serving a maximum of 30 years. The sentencing is seen as a step towards justice, although further trials are pending for those accused of orchestrating the murder. Franco's legacy continues to inspire many, and her case underscores the ongoing struggle against political violence and impunity in Brazil.