Deolane Bezerra's habeas corpus hearing in São Paulo and MP reports 38 detained lawyers

The São Paulo Public Prosecutor’s Office (MP‑SP) presented a report showing that 38 lawyers are held in special cells in the state’s prisons, without any request from the São Paulo Bar Association (OAB‑SP) for transfer to a Sala de Estado‑Maior. The report argues that the existing special cells already meet the legal requirements for lawyers awaiting trial.

Influencer and lawyer Deolane Bezerra Santos, arrested on 21 May 2026 during Operation Vérnix, faces charges of organized crime and money laundering linked to the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC). Her defence filed a habeas corpus seeking her transfer from the Tupi Paulista women’s penitentiary to a Sala de Estado‑Maior, or alternatively, substitution of preventive detention with house arrest. The 16th Criminal Chamber of the São Paulo Court of Justice began hearing the petition on 6 July, with a decision expected by 15 July.

The MP opposes the transfer, stating that Deolane’s current housing – an isolated special pavilion with adequate hygiene, food, medical and religious assistance – satisfies the statutory “special” accommodation for lawyers. The defence, citing the detainee’s panic‑syndrome and concerns over water quality, has requested environmental reports and further inspections. Earlier, the Superior Court of Justice denied an immediate release request. The OAB‑SP has meanwhile suspended Deolane’s right to practice law for up to 360 days.

The case highlights the intersection of criminal prosecution, professional prerogatives for attorneys, and prison‑condition standards in Brazil.