Brazil STJ rules environmental crime asset forfeiture does not require proof of owner bad faith

The Brazilian Superior Tribunal de Justiça (STJ) ruled that machinery used in environmental crimes is subject to mandatory seizure and forfeiture regardless of the owner's intent or bad faith. This decision strengthens the enforcement powers of the Chico Mendes Institute (ICMBio) by removing the evidentiary burden of proving owner culpability in administrative and criminal environmental proceedings.