Brazilian Woman Allegedly Poses as a Child to Trick Family for 16 Months

A 38-year-old woman, Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira, was arrested in Santa Catarina, Brazil, accused of posing as a 12-year-old girl to deceive a couple who housed her for about 16 months, with expenses paid and a childlike home setup. Prosecutors say she ran an elaborate fake-identity scheme and has faced similar charges in other states. Her lawyer has requested a psychiatric evaluation, and proceedings were suspended pending assessment of her fitness to stand trial; she remains in custody.