Brazil's Ex-President Bolsonaro Claims Medication-Induced Hallucinations Led Him to Tamper with Ankle Monitor
In a bizarre twist to a high-profile political scandal, former Brazilian far-right President Jair Bolsonaro attributed his tampering with an electronic ankle monitor to medication-induced hallucinations and paranoia. Bolsonaro claimed during a custody hearing that a psychotic attack
led him to believe the device was bugged, causing him to take a soldering iron to it, according to reports from The Guardian and others.
The Backdrop
Bolsonaro, who has been under house arrest for more than 100 days, is facing a 27-year sentence for masterminding a failed coup, as reported by The New York Times. His arrest came amid suspicions of his plans to abscond to a foreign embassy to avoid jail time. A day after his arrest, a judge ordered his detention citing potential flight risk, as noted by The Japan Times.
The Incident and Bolsonaro's Defense
The incident of Bolsonaro's attempt to interfere with the electronic ankle monitor occurred in the early hours of Saturday (22), as reported by Folha de S.Paulo. Bolsonaro's defense during the hearing was that a change in his medication, along with a nervous breakdown, led to hallucinations and paranoia, causing him to believe the device was potentially bugged.
Quoting Bolsonaro's doctors, Folha de S.Paulo noted that the former president's medical team cited 'mental confusion and hallucinations' as a result of medication interaction. Speaking of the specific medications, the report further noted that Bolsonaro was on a combination of sertraline and pregabalin, which may cause episodes of delirium in certain situations.
Reactions and Implications
This episode has raised questions about the former president's mental health and the potential side effects of his medication. No statements from the court or the prosecution have been reported regarding Bolsonaro's claims. The incident has, however, triggered his detainment due to the risk of escape, leading to his first full day in jail, as per CBC News.
Current Status
Following the incident, Bolsonaro's medical team has reportedly decided to suspend his medication. The ex-president remains under arrest, with his claims of hallucinations and paranoia adding yet another layer of intrigue to his ongoing legal troubles. Legal proceedings and medical evaluations are expected to continue, as the world watches the unfolding saga of the former Brazilian president.