Cuiabá man arrested for suspected abuse of autistic stepdaughter

A 45-year-old man has been arrested in Cuiabá, Brazil, on suspicion of sexually abusing his 13-year-old stepdaughter, who has autism. The arrest was carried out by officers from the Specialized Police Station for the Defense of the Rights of Children and Adolescents (Deddica) following a preventive detention order from the judiciary.

The investigation began after the victim's mother approached the Civil Police after learning of reports indicating potential abuse. Authorities state the suspect allegedly exploited his position of trust and proximity to the teenager to commit the acts on multiple occasions. The case is being investigated as rape of a vulnerable person.