The latest report from Brazilian media outlet Globo is that Brazilian police have closed their investigation into Manchester United player Anthony's alleged domestic abuse of his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin due to insufficient evidence being found to support the allegations. However, the British police investigation is not yet over and continues to be scrutinized over the same incident.
Last year, Gabriela publicly accused Anthony of insulting, beating and threatening her both in Brazil and in the United Kingdom. The São Paulo police launched an exhaustive investigation into the matter, including reviewing evidence such as text messages, audio conversations, videos and photographs from both parties, and collecting statements from 19 witnesses. However, as a result of the investigation, the police were unable to find conclusive evidence that Anthony had committed any crime against Gabriela in São Paulo and decided not to prosecute him.
It is worth noting that despite the closure of the case by the Brazilian police, the Public Prosecutor's Office has the right to re-examine and decide whether or not to prosecute Anthony on the basis of the available evidence. Additionally, Gabriela has accused Anthony of committing a similar act against her in the United Kingdom, an allegation that is being investigated by the Manchester Metropolitan Police. The investigation by the British police is still ongoing and no legal action has yet been taken against Anthony.
Anthony and his defense team have consistently maintained the player's innocence and have said they will fully cooperate with any investigation. If Anthony is held accountable and ultimately convicted in the Brazilian and British justice systems, he could face serious legal consequences, including imprisonment.
The incident has generated widespread media attention and public discussion. On social media, many people expressed sympathy and support for Gabriella's allegations, but some also expressed doubts about Anthony's innocence. Regardless, the incident is yet another reminder of the importance of focusing attention on issues of domestic violence and gender equality.
