Barueri police investigate physiotherapist for alleged fraud

Authorities in Barueri, São Paulo, are investigating physiotherapist Fernando Fernandes, known as Fernandinho, following allegations of fraud brought by volleyball player Samara Coelho.

Coelho, a former member of the Brazilian women’s national volleyball team, reported that she transferred a total of R$ 184,000 to Fernandes in 2020. The athlete stated she believed the funds were for an investment intended to generate returns to purchase a home for her parents. According to the report, the promised returns never materialized, and the money was not returned.

The investigation follows a police report filed by Coelho, who noted that her long-standing professional and personal relationship with Fernandes contributed to her trust in the transaction. Fernandes has been summoned to provide testimony at the Barueri Police Station. His legal counsel has declined to comment on the allegations at this time.