STJ justice votes to convict five former TCE-RJ councilors

A rapporteur for the Superior Tribunal de Justiça (STJ) has voted to convict five former councilors of the Rio de Janeiro State Court of Accounts (TCE-RJ). The defendants face charges of passive corruption, criminal association, and money laundering stemming from operations known as Descontrole and Quinto do Ouro.

Minister Isabel Gallotti proposed prison sentences ranging from 27 to 55 years for the accused. The proposed sanctions include the loss of public office for several defendants and the revocation of pensions for others. Additionally, the vote included the forfeiture of assets and proceeds obtained through criminal activity to the Union.

The prosecution alleges the group operated a scheme to receive bribes from companies seeking favorable treatment or reduced scrutiny regarding public contracts under the jurisdiction of the TCE-RJ. The trial has been temporarily suspended following a request for review by Minister Sebastião Reis Júnior.