Four-star generals convicted of attempting a coup in Brazil have submitted their defenses to the STM (Superior Military Court), which will rule on proceedings to permanently expel them from military life, a step following their convictions by the STF (Supreme Federal Court). Walter Braga Netto is described by his lawyers as someone who commands "enormous respect" within the Armed Forces; Paulo Sérgio de Oliveira is said to have an "impeccable and distinguished" record; Almir Garnier stood out from the time he joined the Armed Forces at age 10.The three retired generals are serving sentences under a closed prison regime for attempting a coup, violently abolishing the democratic rule of law, armed criminal organization, aggravated damage and deterioration of protected heritage. Their STF sentences range from 19 to 26 years, surpassed only by Jair Bolsonaro’s 27-year-and-three-month sentence. The convictions will mark one year on September 11. The generals have been held in makeshift cells since late November. It is the first time Brazil’s democracy has imprisoned four-star military officers for attempting a coup.
Paulo Sérgio has a cell with a bedroom, living room and bathroom, registered 35 visitors authorized by STF Justice Alexandre de Moraes, undergoes physical therapy and psychological care, and studies hospital administration remotely. Garnier receives weekly medical visits, reviews religious books and began doing grammar editing and translation after Moraes denied permission for other activities. Braga Netto received visits from former Cabinet colleagues but spent the first half of the year without working, reading or studying, and with little physical activity.
