Marco Furlan child assault case

In early August 2026, Brazilian actor Marco Furlan was arrested in Pindamonhangaba, São Paulo, on suspicion of raping a five‑year‑old autistic child during a birthday party. Guests restrained the actor after the child’s cries, and police took him into custody. A custody hearing the next day converted the arrest into preventive detention to preserve public order and allow the investigation to continue. Medical examination confirmed the boy suffered anal pain and injuries compatible with sexual violence.

Furlan initially told investigators he had mistaken the child for his girlfriend while intoxicated, later claiming he could not recall the events. Authorities have sought judicial authorization to seize his electronic devices and are probing possible links to other crimes involving minors.

The case has drawn strong reactions from the artistic community; fellow actor Kiko Pissolato expressed mourning for the image he had of his colleague and called for reflection on masculinity and child protection. Furlan remains in preventive detention as the investigation proceeds.