RS court orders release of former Secretary of Animal Welfare indicted on suspicion of mistreatment and embezzlement

Paula Lopes, former secretary of Animal Welfare of Canoas, was arrested for embezzlement Ronaldo Bernardi/Agência RBS The court revoked the preventive arrest of animal protector and former municipal secretary of Animal Welfare of Canoas Paula Lopes. The decision determines the replacement of prison with a series of precautionary measures. Paula Lopes is named as the main subject of the Civil Police's Operation Carrasco. In June, she was indicted for mistreatment, embezzlement, criminal association and violation of functional secrecy. ? Access the g1 RS channel on WhatsApp According to the judgment of the Regional Environmental Court, one of the factors considered for granting freedom was the fact that Paula no longer held the position of municipal secretary. Former secretary, veterinarian and civil police officer are indicted in investigation into euthanasia. The woman asked to be removed from her role, which, according to the decision, rules out the possibility of using political or administrative influence to commit new crimes or to interfere in the collection of evidence. Another point taken into account was the demobilization of the structure that, according to the complaint, would have been used to carry out the conduct investigated. According to a technical report cited in the decision, the Paula Lopes Institute was completely vacated and no longer houses animals. The document points out that there are no dogs or other domestic animals housed in the property's internal areas, kennels or sheds. The decision also highlights that the defendant is a primary defendant, has a permanent residence in the district and presented behavior considered compatible with the regular progress of the process. Paula's defense says that "the decision is fair and is in line with the defensive arguments presented and analyzed." Read below in full. Restrictions Despite her freedom, Paula must comply with a series of restrictions determined by the Court. She is prohibited from carrying out activities related to the collection, transport, custody, shelter or treatment of domestic animals, both in the public and private spheres, including acting through non-governmental entities and organizations. The former secretary will also not be able to maintain contact with the other defendants in the case or with the witnesses listed. Furthermore, she is prevented from visiting the Municipal Department of Animal Welfare of Canoas, the offices of the Instituto Paula Lopes and any animal shelters linked to those being investigated. Among the measures imposed are the prohibition on leaving the region of residence for more than eight days without judicial authorization and the obligation to appear in court monthly to inform and justify their activities. What Paula's defense says "The Defense constituted by former secretary Paula Lopes receives with relief the decision that replaced preventive detention with precautionary measures other than prison. The decision is fair and is in line with the defensive arguments presented and analyzed in the r. judicial decision. We will continue diligently in the process, in which Paula will demonstrate her innocence. Sincerely, Ismael Schmitt Defense Lawyer" VIDEOS: All about RS