This archive report was first published on 25 August 2020.
On August 24, 2020, a Paraguayan judge made a significant ruling in the case of former Barcelona player Ronaldinho Gaucho, ending his house arrest and paving the way for his return to Brazil.
According to reports, Ronaldinho was arrested on March 6 along with his brother and business manager Roberto Assis after they attempted to enter Paraguay with adulterated passports. They were initially held in jail for 32 days before being released into house arrest in a top Asuncion hotel after paying $1.6 million in bail.
However, in a surprising turn of events, the judge agreed to a 'conditional suspension' of charges, effectively clearing Ronaldinho of any responsibility for the crime. The judge ordered him to pay $90,000 in costs, which would be given to charitable organizations.
Speaking in court, Judge Gustavo Amarilla stated, 'The precautionary measure of arrest is lifted, there are no more restrictions placed by Paraguayan justice.'
Ronaldinho, who wore a black t-shirt, hat, and mask in court, remained expressionless and with arms crossed following the judgment.
As the charismatic striker prepares to return to Brazil, it's worth noting that he helped the country win the 2002 World Cup.
