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In São Paulo, Millions Seized by the Police Follow Strict Rules: Values Go to Judicial Accounts, While Luxury Goods Can Reinforce State Actions Against Crime
Have you ever wondered where the money seized in police operations goes? In São Paulo, the answer involves strict rules and judicial decisions. Delegate Jacqueline Valadares, president of the Delegates’ Union, states that it is illegal for agents to keep seized amounts or objects. Everything must be handed over to the State, and it is up to the judiciary to decide the outcome.
Where Does the Money Go
All seized cash is deposited into judicial accounts. If it is in reais, the amount goes to the Caixa Econômica Federal. If it is in dollars, to the Central Bank.
After that, the amount is at the disposal of a judge. He can determine the use of the money to cover legal fees, pay compensation to victims, or, if the accused is convicted, allocate the amount to the State.
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If the investigated individual is acquitted and proves that the money is lawful, they are entitled to the return of the amount.
Corruption Cases and Use by the State
When the case involves corruption, the resources must be directed to public areas, such as Health, Education, and Infrastructure. This is a way for the State to recover part of the damages caused by crime.
In 2020, for example, the Civil Police of São Paulo seized around R$ 700 million. This amount includes cash and assets such as planes, luxury cars, boats, helicopters, and mansions. The figure was disclosed through an assessment conducted by the intelligence sector of the corporation.
Seizures May Exceed R$ 1 Billion
The official total does not consider frozen bank accounts, properties yet to be evaluated, and assets still retained by judicial decision. Therefore, it is estimated that the amounts seized in 2020 may exceed R$ 1 billion.
The Destination of Valuable Assets
The assets can also serve various purposes. With judicial authorization, seized weapons and vehicles can be used by the police itself. There is also the possibility of selling them through auction, with the proceeds going to the public coffers.
A well-known case occurred in Curitiba. The Lamborghini Gallardo of the “Bitcoin King,” investigated for frauds totaling over R$ 1.5 billion, was auctioned for R$ 805 thousand by a resident of Rio de Janeiro. Before that, the vehicle was used as a police vehicle by the Federal Police in events against organized crime.
Assets Are Already in Use by the Police
The judiciary can release the seized assets for use by the São Paulo government. Recently, two helicopters, one plane, and one luxury car were authorized to integrate the police fleet.
A Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 has been put to use by Denarc. Also in operation are a helicopter seized with André do Rap in 2019, another AS350 B2 model helicopter, and a Cessna Caravan plane. All these vehicles are employed in police actions in the state of SP.
With information from R7.
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