A Supreme Court justice approved temporary house arrest for the former president, citing documented health concerns and ordering a reassessment in 90 days.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Brazil’s Supreme Court has authorized former President Jair Bolsonaro to serve his prison sentence under house arrest following a recent hospitalization, with the arrangement subject to review after three months.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes granted the measure on humanitarian grounds after Bolsonaro was treated for bronchopneumonia at DF Star hospital beginning March 13. He was discharged from intensive care on March 24, after which the court allowed the transition from prison to home confinement.
Bolsonaro’s legal team requested the change in custody, stating that his condition requires continuous monitoring and immediate medical response in case of complications. In his ruling, de Moraes stated that “granting temporary humanitarian house arrest is the most reasonable course to ensure the detainee’s full recovery.”
Under the order, Bolsonaro must remain at his residence for the duration of the measure and wear an electronic ankle monitor. He is permitted visits from family members, legal counsel, and medical personnel.
The court also imposed communication restrictions. Bolsonaro is barred from using phones or any other form of contact with individuals outside his residence, either directly or through intermediaries. The ruling states that failure to comply with these conditions could result in his return to custody in a correctional facility or hospital setting.
The decision includes a requirement for a new medical evaluation within 90 days to determine whether the house arrest should continue.
Bolsonaro’s attorneys have previously sought similar relief, arguing that his medical needs cannot be adequately addressed in prison. Attorney Paulo Cunha Bueno said the ruling aligns with prior court decisions involving former President Fernando Collor de Mello, who was granted comparable relief. He added that limiting the measure to a temporary period introduces uncertainty given Bolsonaro’s ongoing health conditions.
Members of Bolsonaro’s family also addressed the court’s decision. His son, Flávio Bolsonaro, questioned the structure of the ruling, stating, “He is going home for his health to improve. And then in 90 days, if he improves, he goes back to the place where his health was getting worse?” He added, “There’s no sense in a temporary house imprisonment. If he improves, he can go back to a battalion.”
Bolsonaro began serving a 27-year sentence in November after being convicted of attempting to overturn the outcome of the 2022 presidential election. The court also found him guilty of leading an armed criminal organization and attempting to dismantle democratic institutions. He has denied the charges.
His medical history includes complications stemming from a stabbing incident in 2018, as well as multiple surgeries, including a recent procedure in December. After that operation, he was returned to federal police custody in Brasília before his most recent hospitalization.
The court’s latest order allows Bolsonaro to remain at home under specified conditions while his health status is monitored and reassessed.
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