Santa Catarina police official admits errors in Orelha case investigation

Families involved in the ‘Orelha’ case in Florianópolis are demanding accountability from former Civil Police of Santa Catarina General Director, Ulisses Gabriel, after he admitted to errors in how the investigation was disclosed to the public.

Gabriel acknowledged that certain actions regarding the release of facts were incorrect, specifically noting that a press conference should not have been held prematurely. The families have criticized this admission as being too late, stating that the ‘precipitated and excessive exposure’ has already caused irreparable damage to their lives.

According to the families, the investigation's handling led to severe consequences, including business closures, loss of clients, hundreds of threats, and the need for private security. They also reported that the adolescents involved faced significant social embarrassment in schools and public spaces. One family member, an adult, and a minor reportedly had to undergo surgery in different cities to avoid potential issues in Florianópolis. Additionally, the families noted the death of Tony Marcos de Souza, a 52-year-old businessman and uncle to one of the adolescents, who died of a heart attack in April.