STF Justice Alexandre de Moraes Targets Journalist's Source in Investigation Involving Justice Flávio Dino

Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes authorized a search and seizure operation on Tuesday against Raimundo Cutrim, a former government secretary in Maranhão, after the Federal Police identified him as a source for journalist Luís Pablo Conceição Almeida. The investigation stems from reports published by Pablo regarding the alleged irregular use of official vehicles from the Court of Justice of Maranhão by Justice Flávio Dino and his family. The Federal Police allege that Pablo committed the crime of stalking against Justice Dino, claiming the journalist's actions caused psychological distress and a sense of permanent surveillance. In response, Justice Dino has denied any irregular use of official vehicles, stating that a blinded car was provided through a cooperation agreement between the STF and the state court for security reasons.

Luís Pablo denies any wrongdoing, stating he did not monitor Justice Dino and that he sought information through institutional channels. He claims the operation is an attempt to destroy him professionally and a grave precedent for the press. The Federal Police identified Cutrim as the source by analyzing electronic devices seized from Pablo during a previous operation in March. This action has sparked significant backlash from journalism and legal entities. The Inter American Press Association (SIP) and Brazilian organizations including Abert, ANJ, and Aner have expressed alarm, stating that violating source confidentiality is a grave threat to press freedom and investigative journalism.

Legal experts are divided on the matter. Some argue that the protection of sources is a constitutional guarantee that should be inviolable, while others suggest that such protections do not shield a journalist if they are committing a crime. The case is currently under seal and is being handled by Justice Moraes as part of a broader inquiry into fake news. Critics of the proceedings question the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in this matter, noting that the investigated journalist does not hold privileged forum status.