Judge Eduardo Appio removed from office over alleged champagne theft

The Special Administrative Court of the TRF-4 has ruled to remove federal judge Eduardo Appio from his position and place him on unpaid leave. The decision follows disciplinary proceedings regarding allegations that Appio stole bottles of Moët & Chandon champagne from a supermarket in Blumenau, Santa Catarina.

Security footage reportedly shows the judge, who previously worked on Lava Jato cases, placing champagne bottles into bags and attempting to leave the establishment without payment. Investigations suggest multiple incidents occurred, including one where he was intercepted by security guards.

The ruling was passed by a 15-to-2 vote. The case will now be forwarded to the National Council of Justice (CNJ) for final review. Appio has contested the decision, describing it as “unjust and disproportionate” and citing his 32 years of public service.