Harvard Law Professor Arrested After Pellet Gun Incident Near Temple

A Harvard Law School professor was arrested last week in Brookline, Massachusetts. Carlos Portugal Gouvêa faces multiple charges following a shooting incident. The event occurred outside Temple Beth Zion during its Yom Kippur service.

Police responded to a security guard’s call about a man with a gun. Authorities later confirmed the weapon was a pellet gun. No injuries were reported from the incident.

Charges and Immediate Fallout from the Event

Gouvêa was charged with illegally discharging a pellet gun. Additional charges include disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace. He was also charged with malicious damage to personal property.

According to the Brookline Police Department, a nearby car was damaged. Police believe the damage was caused by the pellet gun. The Temple stated it has no reason to believe the act was anti-Semitic.

Harvard Law School placed the professor on administrative leave. The school is investigating the matter. Gouvêa was released on his own recognizance after his arraignment.

Broader Context and Academic Profile

Carlos Portugal Gouvêa is a graduate of Harvard Law School. He is a visiting professor and also an associate professor at the University of São Paulo Law School. His current courses at Harvard focus on corruption and sustainable capitalism.

This incident places a spotlight on the conduct of visiting academics. The legal and academic communities are awaiting further developments. The case continues to develop as more information is gathered.

The arrest of a Harvard professor highlights the unexpected nature of the event. The situation remains under active investigation by local authorities. The Harvard professor arrested is scheduled for a pretrial hearing in November.

Info at your fingertips

What exactly was Professor Gouvêa charged with?

He faces charges for illegally discharging a pellet gun. Other charges include disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and property damage. These are all misdemeanor offenses.

Was anyone hurt during the incident?

No injuries were reported from the pellet gun discharge. The Temple confirmed the safety of all attendees. Property damage to a car was the only physical impact noted.

What has been Harvard’s response?

Harvard Law School placed Professor Gouvêa on administrative leave. The school is seeking to learn more about the situation. This is a standard procedure during pending investigations.

What reason did Gouvêa give for his actions?

He told authorities he was using the pellet gun to hunt rats. The incident occurred near a place of worship during a high holiday service. This explanation is part of the ongoing police investigation.

When is the next court date?

His pretrial hearing is scheduled for November 6th. The case is being handled by the Brookline District Court. Further legal proceedings will follow that date.

Trusted Sources

Brookline Police Department, Harvard Law School, Temple Beth Zion