An 11-year-old boy was killed by his own mother and her partner in Brazil. Both women were later sentenced to decades in prison.
The Crime
Rhuan da Silva Castro, 11, was killed at the home he shared with his mother, Rosana Candido, and her partner, Kacyla Pessoa, in Brazil. Candido later told police the killing was motivated by resentment toward the boy and his paternal family. We are not detailing the specific circumstances of his death, given his age.
The Investigation
The case came to police attention after members of the public discovered evidence connected to the crime and alerted authorities. Candido and Pessoa were arrested and confessed to their involvement. Investigators said Candido had a documented history of abusive behavior toward her son prior to his death.
Sentencing
Candido and Pessoa were convicted and sentenced to 65 and 64 years in prison, respectively. Rhuan's father, Maycon Douglas Lima de Castro, said publicly after sentencing that the punishment still felt insufficient given the loss of his son, though he noted the women would spend the rest of their lives in prison.
FAQ
Who was convicted in Rhuan da Silva Castro's death?
His mother, Rosana Candido, and her partner, Kacyla Pessoa, were both convicted and sentenced to over 60 years in prison each.
How old was Rhuan when he died?
He was 11 years old.
What motivated the crime?
Candido reportedly cited resentment toward her son and his paternal family.