Woman Accuses Brazilian Councilman of Rape in His Office; Investigation Underway

A woman has accused Antonio Cesar Peghini, a councilman in Sertãozinho, São Paulo, Brazil, known as Cesinha, of rape within his office at the Municipal Legislature. She stated that she went to his office on June 15 after exchanging messages with him regarding assistance in finding employment. The woman, who was experiencing financial difficulties and emotional vulnerability, claims the conversations turned personal and sexual before their meeting. She reported being called to the legislative building to discuss work, but alleges that the councilman approached her inappropriately as they were preparing to leave his office. She described feeling paralyzed and unable to react, believing that shouting would be futile as no one else was present. The case is currently under investigation by the Civil Police for suspected crimes against sexual dignity. Concurrently, the Sertãozinho City Council has initiated a disciplinary commission to investigate a potential breach of parliamentary decorum. Councilman Peghini has denied all accusations, asserting that he will prove his innocence and stating that his role as a councilman does not involve creating jobs. He also commented on protective measures granted to the accuser, expressing confidence in the judiciary to clear his name. The woman has provided messages to the police that she claims are from conversations with the councilman, including her reporting the alleged assault after the meeting. The court has issued protective orders for the woman, prohibiting contact and proximity with the councilman, based on sufficient preliminary evidence for the investigation.