Bolsonaro Claims Medication Caused Him to Think Monitor Was a Spy Device

Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro has said he damaged his ankle monitor because medication-induced paranoia convinced him the device was secretly recording him.
His explanation came during a Sunday custody hearing, a day after police arrested him at his home. Security officials detected tampering with the device, believing he might be preparing to flee to a foreign embassy.
Bolsonaro has been under house arrest since August after being convicted by the Supreme Court for orchestrating a failed coup attempt. His 27-year prison term was expected to begin soon.
At the hearing, Bolsonaro said he had recently begun taking a strong painkiller and an antidepressant, which he claimed triggered a psychotic episode. Under this delusion, he attempted to open the device using a soldering iron.
Analysts questioned his claim, pointing to earlier footage where Bolsonaro said he acted “out of curiosity.” His former international allies also offered mild reactions, suggesting declining support.