Brazilian Woman Convicted of Fraud for Living as Child to Access Foster Care Family’s Support

A woman in Brazil was found guilty this week of living with a foster family for more than a year while posing as a child, officials confirmed.

Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira, 37, was convicted of fraud and false identity on Thursday following a translated release from the Court of Justice of Santa Catarina.

The woman posed as a child for 14 months before her deception was uncovered. She claimed she had fled abuse to justify her need for shelter.

Oliveira later admitted to fabricating a false identity and age, according to court documents.

The Washington Post reported that she maintained the elaborate deception for 15 years, using a high-pitched voice and claiming she had undergone hormone treatments to appear younger.

She was sentenced to one year, six months, and 10 days in prison, plus four months and 18 days of detention for her crimes.

One of her lawyers, Lúcio Sousa, stated that Oliveira’s actions were a means of survival.

Sousa argued before the court that Oliveira had been vulnerable for over two decades and had not obtained financial gain or commit theft, suggesting the fraud elements were not established. Oliveira maintained she never intended to harm anyone.

Oliveira openly acknowledged the deception, saying, “I deceived people, I lied, but I didn’t intend to scam anyone.” She expressed a desire to experience familial love and care she lacked in childhood.

Following the verdict, Sousa announced they would pursue legal appeals. Brie Stimson is a Los Angeles-based entertainment and breaking news writer for Fox News Digital.

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