Brazilian Ex-Cops Sentenced for Marielle Franco's 2018 Murder

Two former military police officers receive lengthy prison terms for the killing of the prominent Black LGBTQ activist and councilwoman.

Ronnie Lessa and Élcio de Queiroz were sentenced to 78 and 59 years in prison, respectively, for the murder of Marielle Franco and her driver in a 2018 drive-by shooting.
Lessa, who fired the weapon, and de Queiroz, who drove the vehicle, confessed to their roles in the crime but faced a jury trial for final sentencing.
The sentencing is seen as a step toward justice, with further trials pending for those accused of orchestrating the assassination.
Franco's murder highlighted alleged connections between militias, police, and politicians, with ongoing investigations into these ties.
Marielle Franco, known for her advocacy for human rights and against police brutality, remains a symbol of resistance and justice in Brazil.