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STF-Backed Raid Finds R$430,000 in Cash as Probe Targets PL Deputies Over Alleged Quota Diversion

STF authorization followed findings of strong indications of a quota‑diversion scheme using a shell car‑rental firm, with laundering via smurfing.

Overview

  • Federal police seized about R$430,000 in cash from Sóstenes Cavalcante’s Brasília apartment, with agents reporting the money was hidden in a trash bag inside a closet.
  • Minister Flávio Dino cited “robust indications” to authorize searches of Sóstenes and fellow PL deputy Carlos Jordy in the investigation into misuse of the parliamentary quota.
  • Investigators highlight financial smurfing, WhatsApp messages referencing off‑book payments, and the company Harue Locação allegedly controlled in practice by a Jordy aide.
  • The inquiry examines possible crimes of embezzlement, money laundering and organized crime using phone and fiscal records obtained for the 2018–2024 period.
  • Sóstenes says the cash came from a recent property sale and denies wrongdoing, while TSE records show he declared R$4,926.76 in assets in his 2022 filing.