Tocantins man sentenced to 17 years for child abuse

A man has been sentenced to over 17 years in prison for the sexual abuse of his 4-year-old stepdaughter in the rural area of Santa Fé do Araguaia, Tocantins. The sentence, issued by the Specialized Court for Combating Violence Against Women in Araguaína, includes 17 years and 22 days of imprisonment for rape of a vulnerable person, plus additional time for bodily injury.

The child's mother was also convicted in a separate proceeding, receiving a sentence of 8 years, 10 months, and 15 days. The court ruled that she was guilty of omission, as she was aware of the abuses and failed to take the necessary measures to protect her daughter.

The convictions followed investigations by the Tocantins Public Ministry (MPTO), which utilized testimonies, documents, and forensic reports to confirm the crimes. In addition to prison time, both defendants must pay moral damages to the victim. The ruling is currently in the first instance and remains subject to appeal.