A significant legal development has been scheduled in the high-profile case involving former Campo Grande mayor Alcides Bernal. Judge Carlos Alberto Garcete de Almeida has set May 27 as the date for Bernal's first formal deposition before the court. The former mayor is facing serious charges related to the death of public servant Roberto Carlos Mazzini, 61, which occurred on March 24 of this year.
The judicial proceedings will be conducted in person at the 1st Jury Court of Campo Grande. On the same day as Bernal's deposition, the court will also hear testimony from witnesses presented by the defense team. This scheduling indicates the case is moving forward through the formal judicial process.
The prosecution's witnesses will be heard the day before, on May 26. Judge Garcete de Almeida has made accommodations for certain participants, authorizing videoconference participation for police officers and witnesses who reside outside of Campo Grande. This procedural decision aims to ensure all relevant testimony can be collected efficiently.
In a ruling published on Thursday, the judge also addressed several legal motions from the defense. The accusations of home invasion and illegal possession of a firearm against the former mayor have been maintained. The defense had argued there was insufficient proof regarding the invasion charge, claiming the property belonged to Bernal.
However, the judge determined the property was actually owned by Caixa Econômica Federal and the victim, as Bernal had lost the residence due to missed mortgage payments. Regarding the firearm charge, the defense sought its removal, but the judge ruled that receiving and carrying an unregistered weapon constitute separate offenses that must be examined by the justice system.
The case stems from an incident where Bernal turned himself in to police after fatally shooting Mazzini, a tax inspector with the Mato Grosso do Sul Finance Department. According to Bernal's account, he was alerted by his security system after three men entered the house, and he claims he acted in self-defense.
The victim had reportedly acquired the property through a judicial auction and was in the final stages of transferring the deed. After the shooting, Bernal stated he called emergency services and presented himself at the police station. Forensic reports indicate Mazzini was struck by two bullets, suffered three perforations, and despite resuscitation attempts, died at the scene. His body was found on the porch at the entrance of the residence, which was unoccupied at the time of the incident.
Based on reporting from g1.