Jiu-jitsu coach Melqui Galvão, arrested on April 27 in Manaus, denied on Saturday the charges of vulnerable rape, sexual harassment, threat, and electronic device invasion. His defense expresses confidence in the authorities' clarification of the facts. The case involves alleged victims aged 12 and 17 in São Paulo and Amazonas.
Melqui Galvão, 47, well-known jiu-jitsu coach and Amazonas civil police officer, was temporarily arrested on April 27 by order of São Paulo Justice. The arrest followed a 17-year-old ex-student's report of abuse during an overseas sports competition trip. São Paulo's Public Security Secretariat (SSP-SP) identified two other alleged victims, one aged 12 at the time, investigated by the 8th Women's Defense Police Station.
The defense, via lawyer Átila Machado, issued a statement denying the crimes. "The defense reiterates that Melquisedeque Galvão remains at the disposal of competent authorities, trusts the regular functioning of institutions, and awaits full clarification of the facts," the text states. It highlights his clean record in public security and social projects in Manaus and São Paulo.
Amazonas Civil Police provisionally removed Galvão and opened an administrative probe. Investigators heard from the girls' parents, who provided audio of the suspect's indirect admission and messages indicating criminal acts.
Mica Galvão, the coach's son and former world champion, posted on social media: "It was my father who put me on the mat [...] may the facts be investigated seriously". CBJJ and IBJJF announced Melqui Galvão's permanent ban and support for victims.
