In a significant legal development, the Tribunal Superior de Justicia de Cataluña (TSJC) has unanimously overturned the sexual assault conviction of Brazilian footballer Daniel Alves. The court cited inconsistencies and contradictions in the evidence presented, leading to Alves’ absolution after over a year in detention.
Background of the Case
The case dates back to December 31, 2022, when a young woman accused Alves of sexually assaulting her in the VIP bathroom of Barcelona’s Sutton nightclub. Alves was arrested in January 2023 and subsequently sentenced to four and a half years in prison in February 2024. During the trial, Alves provided multiple versions of events, and while forensic analyses confirmed penetration, they couldn’t conclusively establish the lack of consent.
Appeal and Subsequent Ruling
Alves appealed the conviction, and the TSJC reviewed the case. The appellate court found the accuser’s testimony unreliable and noted discrepancies between her account and available video evidence. This led to the conclusion that the presumption of innocence was not overcome, resulting in Alves’ acquittal.
Financial Repercussions and Ongoing Considerations
Following his release, discussions have arisen regarding potential compensation for Alves’ 14 months in provisional detention. Preliminary estimates suggest an amount of approximately €11,000, calculated based on a daily rate of around €30. However, Alves’ legal team has indicated that they are awaiting the finalization of the ruling before pursuing any claims.
Prosecutors are currently evaluating the possibility of appealing the TSJC’s decision to the Supreme Court. This means that while Alves has been acquitted, the legal proceedings may continue, potentially altering the current outcome.
Public and Legal Reactions
The case has elicited varied reactions from the public and officials. Some have expressed concern that the acquittal, especially after a substantial bail payment, might suggest a disparity in justice based on financial means. Additionally, the decision has sparked debates about the effectiveness of the legal system in handling such sensitive cases.
Sources: Reuters and The Guardian