Léo Derik of Athletico-PR sentenced to 13 years for rape

Léo Derik, a 21-year-old left-back for Athletico Paranaense, has been sentenced in a first-instance court in Curitiba to 13 years in prison for two counts of rape against a former partner. The decision was handed down by Judge Taís de Paula Scheer of the 2nd Domestic and Family Violence Court.

The crimes occurred in December 2023 and February 2024. According to the prosecution, the player used physical force to prevent the victim from resisting during sexual encounters. While the Public Ministry had requested acquittal due to what they termed a lack of sufficient evidence and conflicting versions, the judge ruled that the victim's testimony was consistent and supported by psychological reports and witness statements.

In addition to the prison sentence, Derik was ordered to pay R$ 20,000 in moral damages to the victim. The player, who denies all accusations and maintains the encounters were consensual, remains free pending appeal. Athletico Paranaense issued a statement noting they are aware of the judicial decision but will not comment on the details as the case is under judicial secrecy.