Judge Eduardo Appio faces dismissal over alleged champagne theft

The Special Administrative Court of the Federal Regional Court of the 4th Region (TRF-4) has ruled to strip federal judge Eduardo Appio of his position and place him on unpaid leave. The decision follows allegations that Appio stole bottles of Moët & Chandon champagne from a supermarket in Blumenau, Santa Catarina.

Security footage reportedly captured the judge on at least three occasions in September and October 2025, showing him placing champagne bottles into bags without paying. The stolen items were valued at approximately R$ 400 each. Appio, who gained national prominence for succeeding Sergio Moro in the 13th Federal Criminal Court of Curitiba during Operation Lava Jato, has denied the allegations, calling the sanction “unjust and disproportionate” and maintaining his 32-year record of honest service.

The disciplinary measure is not yet final; the decision must be submitted to the National Council of Justice (CNJ) for review. Following a potential confirmation by the CNJ, the case may also require actions from the Attorney General's Office (AGU) and the Supreme Federal Court (STF) to finalize the dismissal.