A high-ranking justice of Brazil’s Superior Court of Justice (STJ), Marco Aurélio Buzzi, is currently at the center of a sexual harassment investigation following a detailed account provided by an 18-year-old woman. The young woman alleges that Justice Buzzi inappropriately touched and pressed her body against his during a family vacation in Balneário Camboriú, on the coast of Santa Catarina, in an incident that has since led to a formal inquiry by the country’s second-highest judicial body. The accusation, which includes claims of unwanted physical contact and suggestive remarks, has drawn significant attention to the conduct of public officials and the processes for addressing such serious allegations within the Brazilian legal system.
The young woman’s sworn testimony to the São Paulo Civil Police outlines a sequence of events from January 9, 2025, that began innocently during a shared family trip. She had been traveling with her parents alongside Justice Buzzi’s family, viewing the justice figure as a grandparental figure in her life. This perceived relationship dynamic underscores the profound emotional impact and distress she has reportedly experienced since the alleged incident.
The detailed account forms the core of the ongoing investigation, highlighting the critical importance of witness statements in cases of alleged misconduct. Legal proceedings are now underway to ascertain the full scope of the accusations and to ensure a transparent and just process for all parties involved.
Allegations surface from a beach excursion
According to the young woman’s testimony, the group had decided to visit Praia do Estaleiro, a beach situated near Justice Buzzi’s condominium where both families were staying. On the day of the incident, Justice Buzzi and the young woman opted to head to the beach ahead of the others. Her father was engaged in an online meeting, while her mother awaited the justice’s wife to complete her chores, leaving them momentarily unchaperoned.
Upon reaching the beach, Justice Buzzi invited her into the sea, suggesting they move to a specific section about 400 meters away from their parasol, claiming the water there would be “more tranquil.” This suggestion, she recounted, struck her as odd, given the calm conditions of the sea where they initially were located.
The incident at Estaleiro beach unfolds
The two proceeded to the area indicated by Justice Buzzi and entered the water. It was at this point, according to her statement, that the situation allegedly escalated. Justice Buzzi reportedly commented on feeling cold, then pointed to two other individuals embracing in the water, remarking, “That must be why they are hugging.”
Immediately following this comment, the young woman testified that Justice Buzzi pulled her by the arm. She recounted being turned with her back toward him, at which point he allegedly pressed his pelvis and buttocks against her, causing her to feel his penis. During this alleged contact, he reportedly told her that he found her “very beautiful.”
When she attempted to pull away, Justice Buzzi allegedly pulled her back against him, then ran his hand over her buttocks. She reiterated that she again felt his penis during this second instance of unwanted contact. Despite her efforts to distance herself, he reportedly tried to pull her closer a few more times, though without success.
Victim’s distress and minister’s denial
After the alleged episode in the water, the young woman stated that Justice Buzzi remarked on her sincerity. He reportedly told her, “You are very sincere, you should be less. This can harm you.” They then walked back to their original parasol. Upon learning that her mother had arrived, Justice Buzzi allegedly stated he would take a “walk to the end of the beach.”
Feeling deeply unsettled, the young woman informed her parents upon returning to the condominium. Her parents immediately decided to cut their vacation short and return to São Paulo. She described seeing Justice Buzzi as a grandfather figure, emphasizing the profound shock and betrayal she felt from the alleged actions.
Since the incident, she has reportedly experienced persistent sleeplessness and recurring nightmares. She has been undergoing psychological and psychiatric support to cope with the trauma. Meanwhile, Justice Buzzi has publicly denied the allegations, stating through his legal team that he was “surprised” by the “insinuations” which “do not correspond to the facts.”
STJ launches formal inquiry into accusations
Following the public revelation of the sexual harassment accusation, Justice Buzzi presented a medical certificate citing chest pains and requested a leave of absence from his duties at the STJ. He was reportedly admitted to DF Star Hospital in Brasília for treatment.
In a significant development, the plenary of the STJ convened an extraordinary session on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, to address the allegations. The court unanimously voted to open a formal inquiry, known as a sindicância, to thoroughly investigate the claims against Justice Buzzi. A commission comprising Justices Raul Araújo, Isabel Gallotti, and Antonio Carlos Ferreira has been appointed to oversee this critical internal investigation.
Legal team awaits impartial investigation
The legal representation for the young woman has issued a statement confirming their client’s commitment to the investigative process. They articulated an expectation for rigorous and thorough scrutiny of the allegations. The defense team further stated that they “await rigor in the investigations and the respective outcome before the competent bodies,” underscoring the importance of due process and a just resolution. This ongoing legal and internal inquiry by the Superior Court of Justice highlights Brazil’s commitment to addressing serious allegations of misconduct against its high-ranking judicial officials, ensuring accountability and upholding the integrity of the justice system in 2025.
