Petrobras to be refunded $51.2 million embezzled by former manager
Former Petrobras Services manager Pedro Barusco
Federal Judge Sergio Moro has authorized $51.2 million worth of money embezzled by former Petrobras Services manager Pedro Barusco to be transferred back to the company coffers. This amount accounts for 80% of the funds found in offshore accounts held by Barusco. The remaining 20% of the total $66.6 million will be held in a court deposit account as a provision for potential damage indemnities to third parties.
Based on Operation Car Wash investigations, Barusco is charged with soliciting kickbacks from contractors. He pledged to refund the illegal payments as part of his plea bargain agreement.
In his decision authorizing the transfer, announced Tuesday (May 5), Judge Moro recommended using the money to support anti-corruption initiatives within the company. He also commended the task force that has been investigating the case for a year for its achievements.
“Especially praiseworthy are the investigative and prosecution efforts of the Public Prosecutors and the Federal Police, supported by other public agencies including the Federal Revenue Service, in achieving recovery of these assets. This million-scale refund was only possible thanks to their effectiveness, integrity, determination, and firmness. Dealing with a corruption scandal of such magnitude would not have been possible without these qualities. Also noteworthy is the invaluable and crucial assistance provided by other countries, particularly the Swiss Confederation, through international legal cooperation,” Moro concluded.
Translated by Mayra Borges
Fonte: Petrobras to be refunded $51.2 million embezzled by former manager
