Former Brazilian President Bolsonaro Claims Medication-Induced Paranoia Led to Ankle Monitor Violation

Sao Paulo:

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro claimed on Sunday that he experienced "paranoia" induced by medication, which led him to tamper with his electronic ankle monitor, according to a document reviewed by Reuters. This statement came just one day after federal police took him into custody as they considered him a potential flight risk.

Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes ordered the detention of the right-wing former leader on Saturday, ahead of a planned supporters' gathering outside Bolsonaro's residence. The judge expressed concerns that this vigil could compromise police monitoring of his house arrest. Justice de Moraes also referenced a police report indicating that Bolsonaro had violated the terms of his ankle monitor.

During a custody hearing following his detention, Bolsonaro rejected allegations that he intended to escape house arrest or tried to remove the monitoring equipment. According to the document, he explained that he experienced a "hallucination" believing there was a wire inside the ankle monitor.

The presiding judge at the hearing ruled to maintain police custody of the former president, determining that all legal protocols had been properly followed during Bolsonaro's arrest.