Brazil entrepreneur and military police officer charged in torture and attempted homicide of pregnant maid

The Public Prosecutor’s Office of Maranhão (MP‑MA) filed criminal charges on 29 June 2026 against entrepreneur Carolina Sthela Ferreira dos Anjos and military police officer Michael Bruno Lopes Santos. The indictment alleges qualified attempted homicide, aggravated torture and attempted abortion of 19‑year‑old domestic worker Samara Regina, who was five months pregnant at the time.

According to prosecutor Nahyma Ribeiro Abas, the investigation gathered robust testimonial and forensic evidence. She said, “Houve uma investigação pela autoridade policial bastante detalhada, com várias provas testemunhais e periciais que demonstraram, de fato, a configuração de crimes graves.” The victims were subjected to severe physical and psychological violence after being falsely accused of stealing a R$ 5 000 ring. Audio recordings reportedly capture Ferreira saying the victim “não era nem para ter saído viva.”

The prosecutors request continued preventive detention for both accused and that the case be tried before a jury. Carolina remains in custody after a failed attempt to flee from Piauí, and the police officer is also detained. The case is being processed in the Comarca of Paço do Lumiar, in the São Luís metropolitan area.