Federal Police Investigate Misuse of Public Funds in 'Dark Horse' Film Financing
The Federal Police have launched an operation investigating alleged misuse of public funds totaling R$ 19 million in the financing of the film 'Dark Horse,' targeting key figures including federal deputy Mário Frias.
- • Polícia Federal executed 49 search warrants linked to 'Dark Horse' film financing.
- • Investigation concerns R$ 19 million in suspected misuse of public funds.
- • Mário Frias allegedly allocated R$ 2 million to entities without proof of services.
- • Seven firearms seized from Frias under suspicion of illegal possession.
- • 29 individuals investigated for crimes including embezzlement and money laundering.
Key details
The Polícia Federal launched a comprehensive operation on September 10 targeting the financing behind the film 'Dark Horse,' which portrays former President Jair Bolsonaro. This investigation involves 49 search warrants executed across São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Ceará, and the Federal District, including the homes of federal deputy Mário Frias and film producer Karina Gama.
The federal inquiry, overseen by Supreme Court Minister Flávio Dino due to the involvement of a parliamentary deputy, centers on the alleged misuse of approximately R$ 19 million in public funds. A key focus is on Mário Frias, who is accused of channeling R$ 2 million in parliamentary amendments to organizations tied to Gama’s Institute Conhecer Brasil without evidence that services were provided. Authorities suspect that documents may have been falsified to conceal these financial irregularities.
The investigation is probing a complex financial flow between Frias, the beneficiary entities, and the production company Go Up Entertainment. So far, 29 individuals are under investigation for crimes such as peculato (embezzlement), document forgery, money laundering, and irregularities in bidding processes.
Adding to the scrutiny, seven firearms were seized from Frias' residence, which were discovered in an unauthorized location, leading to an additional inquiry into illegal possession.
This police operation aims to clarify the purported connections between government funds, the film’s financing, and the implicated parties. It reflects a wider effort to combat corruption and misuse of public resources in high-profile cultural projects in Brazil.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
