Ex-Police Officers Convicted for Murder of Brazilian Politician Marielle Franco

The recent court verdict marking the conviction of two ex-police officers for the 2018 murder of Marielle Franco is a pivotal moment in Brazil's ongoing struggle for political justice and accountability.

Two ex-police officers have been sentenced for the murder of Marielle Franco, a noted leftist politician whose assassination in 2018 triggered nationwide protests. Ronnie Lessa, the shooter, received a hefty sentence of 78 years and nine months, while his accomplice Élcio de Queiroz, who drove the getaway car, got 59 years and eight months. Franco's assassination, which claimed the life of her driver Anderson Gomes as well, has since highlighted issues of political violence in Brazil, particularly against marginalized groups.

Speaking from prison via video link, Lessa attested that the allure of a million-dollar bounty for Franco’s death had driven him to madness, marking a troubled mindset behind the crime. In March 2024, Brazil’s Justice Minister, Ricardo Lewandowski, claimed the killing was politically motivated, noting that Franco was an advocate for housing the poor—a vision in conflict with the aims of certain powerful interests.

Both men cut plea bargains that have led to the arrests of alleged masterminds behind the hit, including politician Chiquinho Brazão and his brother, with the former police chief of the state implicated in approving the attack. Franco's family continues to seek justice, urging that those truly behind the conspiracy face legal repercussions.

During the trial, survivor Fernanda Chaves recounted the harrowing night of the shooting, which reshaped her life entirely. Following the attack, she had to flee Brazil but has since returned, passionately declaring that while the perpetrators were convicted, their memories will linger and remind future generations of the injustice faced by Franco.

Notable reactions poured in after the verdict: Anielle Franco, the politician's sister, reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining Marielle's legacy, stating that their fight for justice would persist as long as they draw breath. Pastor Henrique Vieira lamented that while he wished for Franco to be more than a symbol, her spirit and contributions remain deeply missed. Investigations continue surrounding the alleged conspiracy orchestrators, who deny the accusations against them, as the fight for justice persists in Brazil.