The former Brazilian president, Jair Bolsonaro, has been moved to a state prison after weeks held at federal police headquarters. This transfer marks a dramatic turn in the aftermath of the contested 2022 election and the accusations of a coup attempt that followed.
Bolsonaro, along with several former ministers and military leaders, received a sentence exceeding 27 years in September 2025. The conviction stems from alleged efforts to overturn the election results after his defeat by Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, plunging Brazil into a period of political turmoil.
His legal team voiced concerns over his initial confinement, describing the cell as cramped and disturbed by disruptive air conditioning noise. Requests for house arrest were firmly rejected by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, the presiding authority in the case.
However, Moraes did authorize a significant upgrade in living conditions. Bolsonaro now occupies a 64.83 m² cell, complete with a private bathroom, kitchen, an outdoor sunbathing area, and even space dedicated for exercise equipment.
This new accommodation represents a considerable improvement from his previous 12 m² cell, which, despite its size, already included a private bathroom, minibar, television, and air conditioning. Throughout his detention, Bolsonaro has maintained access to round-the-clock medical attention, following hospitalization and surgery for a herniated disc in December.
The Supreme Court released footage showcasing the facilities within the Papuda Penitentiary Complex, known locally as “Papudinha.” This is where other figures implicated in the alleged coup attempt, including former Minister of Justice Anderson Torres and former Federal Highway Patrol director Silvinei Vasques, are currently serving their sentences.
Justice Moraes acknowledged the privileges afforded to Bolsonaro, a direct response to complaints regarding his previous cell’s limitations. He emphasized that these accommodations are not standard for the majority of Brazil’s incarcerated population.
A request for a Smart TV with access to streaming services and YouTube was denied. Authorities cited concerns that unrestricted internet access would compromise security and potentially facilitate unauthorized communication with outside parties.
The General Prosecutor’s Office stated that a permanent web connection would make it “impossible to control access to social networks and communication with unauthorized third parties,” highlighting the sensitive nature of the case and the need for strict oversight.
