Tito Barichello and Tathiana Guzella charged in unauthorized police operation

The Public Ministry of Paraná (MPPR) has filed charges against State Deputy Tito Barichello and his wife, Curitiba Councilor Tathiana Guzella, for their involvement in an unauthorized police operation in March 2024.

The MPPR alleges that Barichello, Guzella, and another civil police officer conducted an operation without the knowledge or authorization of the Civil Police. During the incident, the pair appeared in videos wearing bulletproof vests bearing the Civil Police insignia, with Barichello holding a rifle. The prosecution claims the trio committed abuse of authority by using their police status to gain undue public exposure and personal promotion for electoral purposes.

While social media posts linked the action to a homicide investigation, the MPPR noted the actual arrest warrant pertained to a violation of a protective order related to domestic violence. Additionally, Barichello and the other officer face charges for the illegal possession of a restricted-use firearm due to the unauthorized use of a rifle.

At the time of the incident, both Barichello and Guzella were away from their roles as police delegates. Barichello had been elected state deputy, while Guzella was serving as a parliamentary advisor before her subsequent election to the Curitiba City Council. The defendants have stated they trust the justice system and reaffirm their commitment to legality.