Woman in Brazil convicted of fraud after posing as a child to live with family

The Court of Justice of Santa Catarina in Brazil has convicted 37-year-old Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira of fraud and false identity. According to reports, she lived with a foster family for 14 months while posing as a child. Oliveira, who had previously claimed she was fleeing abuse, eventually admitted to creating a false identity and age. Reports indicate she had maintained this deception for 15 years by using a childlike voice and elaborate stories. The court sentenced her to one year, six months, and 10 days in prison, along with four months and 18 days of detention. Her lawyer, Lúcio Sousa, acknowledged that his client invented an identity but argued it was a means of survival, noting there were no allegations of financial gain, robbery, or theft. Oliveira stated she never intended to harm anyone and was seeking the care she lacked during her own childhood. Her legal team has announced plans to appeal the verdict.