STJ Minister Accused of Sexual Harassment: Defense Cites Contradictory Evidence
Marco Buzzi, a suspended minister from Brazil's Superior Court of Justice (STJ), faces a disciplinary hearing on Thursday, October 6th, regarding accusations of sexual harassment and molestation by two women. The proceedings could lead to his permanent removal from the bench. One accuser, an 18-year-old, claims Buzzi molested her in January 2026 while she was vacationing with her family at his home in Balneário Camboriú, Santa Catarina. The second accuser, a former staff member, alleges repeated sexual harassment and molestation during her employment. Buzzi is also under two criminal investigations at the Supreme Federal Court (STF) for alleged sexual molestation related to these incidents and for suspected involvement in a judicial corruption scheme. Buzzi's lawyer, Maria Fernanda Saad Ávila, has contested the allegations, presenting evidence she claims contradicts the accusers' testimonies. She argues that Buzzi, who uses a cane and has a leg length discrepancy, required assistance to enter the sea, and the interaction with the younger accuser was limited to holding hands for support. Regarding the former staff member, the defense asserts that entry logs and daily schedules for Buzzi's office show that he and the accuser were not alone during the alleged incidents in early 2023. The lawyer also highlighted a medical report indicating Buzzi has erectile dysfunction, suggesting it makes the accuser's description of a physical encounter impossible. Furthermore, the defense claims two key prosecution witnesses provided contradictory or false testimony, citing discrepancies in their accounts of Buzzi's arrival times at the STJ and their own work schedules.
The defense's strategy hinges on discrediting witness testimony and highlighting inconsistencies in the accusers' accounts, particularly concerning the timing and exclusivity of encounters. By emphasizing Buzzi's mobility issues and presenting evidence like entry logs and medical reports, the defense aims to cast doubt on the plausibility of the alleged actions. The legal process will weigh these claims against the accusers' testimonies and any corroborating evidence. This case underscores the complexities of proving sexual misconduct allegations, especially when they involve individuals in positions of power. The differing accounts and the reliance on documentary evidence versus personal testimony present a significant challenge for the disciplinary panel in determining the facts and ensuring a just outcome, while also considering the broader implications for judicial integrity and workplace conduct within the STJ.
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