Rafael Cardoso case: defense says actor was provoked and reacted

For the first time since the accusation of assault in a bar in Barra da Tijuca, west of Rio de Janeiro, Rafael Cardoso's defense gave details of the actor's version of the events. According to a statement sent to CNN by lawyer Alexandre Ramalho, the client was provoked by the establishment manager and reacted.

“What happened was an unfortunate misunderstanding. Rafael was provoked by unjustified verbal insults, initially trying to overcome the situation peacefully. The interaction escalated in an unfortunate manner, culminating in an incident that was widely publicized,” said Ramalho.

The defense reiterated that Cardoso had taken medication and added that he also drank alcohol and that this would have led to “a change in Rafael's behavior, something completely out of his usual character”, said in an excerpt the lawyer, who stated that the The incident does not reflect the nature of Rafael Cardoso, who would be “deeply sorry for what happened, since he understands that he should have controlled his reaction better, even in the face of provocations”.

The confusion happened on February 26th. According to a report from the bar employee to the Civil Police, the actor arrived in a car at high speed and braked sharply in front of the establishment, which would have frightened customers. Rafael would be aggressive and very upset.

The establishment's internal circuit shows Rafael, in a black shirt, arguing with employees in front of the bar. At one point, the manager, who wears green clothes, arrives, speaks to the actor and walks away. Cardoso goes after the manager. The employee runs into the establishment and bumps into tables. The actor comes right after him.

The employee runs out of the bar again and falls to the floor. Rafael starts attacking the man, even though he is down. Other people arrive to break up the fight and the manager gets up.

Rafael, moments later, attacks the man again. The two run and almost cross the lanes of Avenida Lúcio Costa, on the edge of Barra. After a few minutes of confusion, the actor leaves. The bar team is located at the door of the establishment.

“We are aware of the recordings and recognize that, although the actions captured may appear incriminating at first glance, it is essential to consider all mitigating factors,” Ramalho said of the images.

After the investigation by the Barra da Tijuca police station (16th DP), which classified the conduct in the crimes as threats and attempted bodily harm, the case was sent to court. The first hearing in the assault case against actor Rafael Cardoso was scheduled for April 17th.

The defense states that the actor, from the beginning, demonstrated full cooperation with the authorities, attending the police station to provide all necessary clarifications and that he wants to resolve the situation in the fairest and most transparent way possible.

“Rafael apologizes for the incident and undertakes to take all necessary measures to repair the damage caused”, the statement ends.