Brazil Woman, 37, Impersonates Autistic Child to Scam Adoptive Families

POLICY WIRE — São Paulo, Brazil — Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira, 37, has been accused of impersonating a 12-year-old autistic girl to deceive families into adopting her. According to Brazilian police, de Oliveira targeted an evangelical church-going couple and conducted similar scams across Brazil over several years.

The elaborate scheme involved de Oliveira adopting the persona of a vulnerable child, gaining the trust and sympathy of potential adoptive parents. The couple, whose identities have not been disclosed, were reportedly left devastated upon discovering the truth.

Authorities have indicated that de Oliveira’s modus operandi included gaining the confidence of her targets through prolonged interactions, often within community and religious settings. The scam unraveled when inconsistencies in her story raised suspicions, leading to an investigation.

Brazilian police are now examining the extent of de Oliveira’s activities, with indications that she may have victimized multiple families. The case has sparked concerns about the vulnerabilities within the adoption system and the need for stricter verification processes.

De Oliveira has been apprehended and is currently cooperating with authorities. Further details about her motives and the full scope of her actions are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)