An investigation by Brazil’s Civil Police in Mato Grosso has uncovered the alleged double life of a family of religious missionaries who were authorized by the state government to provide spiritual assistance in prisons but allegedly used that access to maintain ties with the dangerous Comando Vermelho (CV), one of Brazil’s largest criminal factions.
At the center of the investigation is Rhavenna Barcelos de Almeida, who, along with her parents, pastors Nivaldo and Orminda de Almeida, is accused of using religious visits to the Central State Penitentiary in Cuiabá to pass messages between inmates, provide bank accounts for moving money and help conceal funds allegedly connected to drug trafficking, according to G1.
Evidence gathered by police and detailed on the television program Fantástico reportedly includes messages, photos, audio recordings and videos showing Rhavenna displaying weapons, stacks of cash, jewelry and luxury vehicles, including a Porsche valued at around 600,000 Brazilian reais, or approximately $110,000. According to investigators, the car belonged to Jonas Souza Gonçalves Júnior, known as “Batman,” who is identified as one of the alleged leaders of Comando Vermelho in the state.
“Batman” was serving a 49-year sentence at the same prison where the family carried out its religious work. In September 2024, he was granted semi-open custody but fled to Rio de Janeiro after removing his electronic monitoring bracelet. Police suspect Rhavenna was romantically involved with the fugitive and knew where he was hiding, allegedly visiting him and spending time with him using money investigators believe came from criminal activity.
Investigators also allege that Rhavenna was simultaneously involved with Renildo Silva Rios, described as a key Comando Vermelho figure in Mato Grosso. He has been imprisoned for more than two decades for crimes including homicide, drug trafficking and criminal organization. According to the investigation, he allegedly sent her expensive gifts, including jewelry and vehicles.
Rhavenna was placed in preventive detention in July, while she and her parents are being investigated by prosecutors. Local authorities have also prohibited them from providing any type of religious assistance in prisons and strengthened controls over cellphones entering correctional facilities.
The people under investigation deny the allegations and say their innocence will be proven during the judicial process. Rhavenna’s father died in recent days after suffering from cancer.
