Chapter 19: Reformulating the Laws

The morning sun was illuminating the Planalto Palace when Gustavo entered the meeting room accompanied by his advisors. On the other side of the table, the Minister of Justice and Public Security, Carolina Mota, was already waiting. They both knew that today's meeting would be crucial to define the guidelines for one of the most sensitive and challenging areas of their government: public security. Brazil had been facing a crisis of violence for years, with the population feeling insecure and distrustful of the judicial system.

Gustavo sat down, holding a folder. He opened it and looked at Carolina, who was waiting attentively.

"Minister Carolina, thank you for coming so early. We have a lot to discuss. Public security is a top priority for this government, and we cannot waste time. We need to make radical changes to our laws to ensure that those who commit crimes, especially serious crimes, are arrested and no longer have the chance to return to the streets to harm law-abiding citizens," Gustavo began, getting straight to the point.

Carolina, who had always been firm and dedicated to her duties, nodded. — President, I completely agree. We have a system that often ends up benefiting criminals instead of protecting society. The problem is not just the lack of structure in our prisons or the inefficiency of the police, but rather the legislation itself that allows loopholes for repeat offenders to be released.

Gustavo adjusted his position in his chair, his expression serious. — We need a complete reform. I want laws that are clear and strict. Serious crimes, such as homicide, kidnapping, rape, drug trafficking and corruption, should be punished with harsher sentences, with no chance of progression of the regime in these cases. If the individual committed a crime like this, he needs to be imprisoned and serve the full sentence.

Carolina took a notepad where she had already sketched out some ideas and proposed: — I think we can start with a complete review of the Penal Code, focusing on these violent crimes and how the progression of sentences is applied. If we make these rules stricter, we will reduce recidivism. Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure that those convicted of corruption receive exemplary punishments. The country is tired of seeing major white-collar criminals go unpunished.

Gustavo immediately supported the idea. — Exactly. The current system benefits the powerful and the most dangerous criminals. Corruption destroys the population's trust in the government and the system. We will toughen the penalties for these cases and ensure that the stolen resources are returned to the people. Brazil needs justice.

Carolina looked at Gustavo with determination. — In addition, we need to give more autonomy and power to the police forces. Our police play a fundamental role, but they are often left with their hands tied due to a lack of legal or even moral support. I believe that one of the first measures we should implement is to ensure that the police officer who acts correctly in a dangerous situation is not prosecuted or unduly punished.

— I completely agree, — said Gustavo. — We need to ensure that our police officers know that they have the support of the government to fulfill their duty. They risk their lives every day to protect the population and need to be sure that their actions are protected by the law. One proposal I am considering is the creation of a legal system that protects police officers in cases of confrontation, as long as they are acting within the established rules.

Carolina nodded in approval. — We can also implement a policy of continuous retraining of the police force. More rigorous and constant training will help reduce abuses and, at the same time, increase efficiency in fighting crime. We need to ensure that police officers are prepared both physically and mentally to deal with the various situations they face on a daily basis.

Gustavo made a quick note in his folder. — In addition, I want to increase investments in technology for public safety. We cannot rely solely on brute force. We need to use high-tech surveillance cameras, drones, facial recognition and artificial intelligence to monitor high-risk areas. Our borders also need more attention to combat arms and drug trafficking.

Carolina smiled, pleased with the direction of the conversation. — That is an excellent idea, President. The use of technology can transform the way security is carried out in Brazil. We can also invest more in police intelligence, so that we can dismantle large criminal organizations before they even act.

— This is essential. We will fight organized crime with all our strength. Increase the number of special operations against drug and arms trafficking, dismantle factions and cut off their sources of income. The State must be more active.

Carolina nodded again. "We need a justice system that works in conjunction with the police. A crime investigated by the police needs to be tried quickly and efficiently. We can no longer accept cases that drag on for years and years. The population needs to see justice being served."

Gustavo leaned back in his chair, thinking for a moment, before continuing.

"What about social reintegration? How can we ensure that criminals who have served their sentences, especially those who have committed minor crimes, are reintegrated into society without returning to crime?"

Carolina answered with a clear idea in mind. "We need to reform rehabilitation and reintegration programs. The current prison system is overcrowded and inefficient, and does nothing to help inmates reintegrate properly. We need education, job training, and psychological support programs. But above all, we need to ensure that they have real opportunities outside of prison so that they do not return to the world of crime."

Gustavo nodded. — That's the key. Let's work to ensure that prisons stop being mere warehouses for human beings and become true re-education institutions. Only then can we break the cycle of recidivism.

The meeting progressed with new ideas emerging at every turn. Carolina, as an experienced jurist, outlined possible action plans, while Gustavo refined the strategies based on his own experience in the security sector and his vision for Brazil.

— Carolina, we have to be quick and precise. The Brazilian people are tired of promises and want to see results. I know you are the right person to lead this change, and I want you to have all the support you need to implement these reforms.

Carolina looked at Gustavo seriously. — President, I will dedicate myself entirely to this. We have a long way to go, but with the support of the government and, above all, the people, we can change Brazil for the better.

— That's what we need: determination. And we have it. Change begins now," Gustavo concluded, extending his hand to Carolina, who shook it firmly.

As the meeting ended, both knew they were ready to face the challenges that lay ahead. Brazil needed security, justice, and order, and Gustavo and Carolina were determined to deliver just that to the Brazilian people.