STF Keeps Bolsonaro in Preventive Detention After Custody Hearing Over Tampered Ankle Monitor

Overview

• In the hearing, Jair Bolsonaro said he acted during a “paranoia” and “hallucination” he attributed to medications, citing pregabalin and sertraline, and he denied any intent to flee.
• A Seape report and video show he used a soldering iron on the ankle monitor, and Minister Alexandre de Moraes cited the violation and a supporter vigil as factors indicating flight risk.
• Bolsonaro remains at the Federal Police superintendence in Brasília in a special room with medical care and restricted, pre‑authorized visits, including an approved visit by Michelle Bolsonaro.
• His lawyers petitioned for humanitarian house arrest, submitting a medical bulletin that describes confusion and hallucinations possibly linked to drug interactions.
• Small groups of supporters gathered outside the PF and near his residence, and the court maintained custody after confirming the legality of the arrest during the required review.