Brazilian woman, 38, accused of years of ‘elaborate fraud’ by posing as a child
The Guardian • • world
Key Points:
- Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira, a 38-year-old woman in Brazil, was arrested for pretending to be a 12-year-old girl to deceive a couple who took her into their home for over 15 months in Joinville, Santa Catarina.
- Oliveira allegedly convinced the couple to support her financially, provided a childlike environment, and celebrated a fake 12th birthday, while claiming abuse and hormone treatment to explain her appearance.
- The deception was uncovered after an aunt grew suspicious and linked Oliveira to similar fraud cases reported in other Brazilian states, revealing a pattern of emotional manipulation and false identities.
- Oliveira has a history of similar offenses dating back to the late 2000s, including claims of being a minor victim of abuse, and is currently undergoing a psychiatric evaluation to determine her fitness to stand trial.
- Legal proceedings are suspended pending the evaluation, and Oliveira remains in prison as authorities continue to investigate the elaborate fraud scheme.