Robinho appeals prison sentence for gang rape in Italy

Robinho, the former footballer known for his time at Manchester City and Real Madrid, has been serving a nine-year prison sentence for his involvement in a gang rape that occurred in Italy over a decade ago. He was convicted in 2017, but his sentence was delayed due to multiple appeals. In March, following a significant ruling by Brazil's supreme court, he began serving his sentence in Brazil after Italian authorities were unable to extradite him. Currently, he is incarcerated in Tremembe's Penitentiary II, a facility noted for being less overcrowded and often referred to as a 'celebrity prison.' Despite his affluent status among inmates, Robinho's legal team has faced challenges in their attempts to appeal his conviction. They have sought to have his crime reclassified from 'heinous' to 'common,' arguing that the classification in Italy should apply. However, in Brazil, 'heinous' crimes do not allow for appeals, and their efforts have been unsuccessful for the second time since his sentencing. While in prison, Robinho has reportedly been engaging in various activities to keep himself occupied. He is participating in a basic electronics course, which includes learning to repair televisions and radios, as part of a rehabilitation program aimed at preparing inmates for life after release. His lawyer has described him as an exemplary inmate, indicating that he has had no issues with fellow prisoners and has even been given football boots to join in recreational games. Robinho's football career came to an end in 2020, but his current focus appears to be on personal development during his incarceration. The ongoing legal battles and his efforts to adapt to prison life highlight the complexities surrounding his case and the implications of his conviction on his future.