Harvard Law Professor Carlos Gouvea Arrested in Pellet Gun Incident

A Harvard Law School professor was arrested in Brookline, Massachusetts. Carlos Portugal Gouvea faces multiple charges after allegedly firing a pellet gun. The incident occurred near a synagogue on Wednesday evening.

The professor was placed on administrative leave by Harvard. Authorities have stated they do not believe the synagogue was the intended target. The event caused significant alarm as it happened while worshippers were arriving for Yom Kippur services.

Details of the Brookline Arrest

Carlos Portugal Gouvea, 43, was taken into custody outside Temple Beth Zion. According to Brookline police, he was confronted by private security guards. The guards reported hearing two loud shots and seeing the professor with a pellet rifle.

A brief physical struggle occurred as the guards attempted to detain him. Gouvea initially fled into a nearby residence before surrendering to police. Officers later found a broken car window with a pellet inside, matching his alleged weapon.

Academic Fallout and Legal Proceedings

Harvard Law School swiftly placed Gouvea on administrative leave. A spokesperson confirmed the school is seeking to learn more about the matter. This action was first reported by The Harvard Crimson student newspaper.

Gouvea pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in Brookline District Court. He was released on personal recognizance. His next court appearance is scheduled for early November.

The charges against him include illegally discharging a pellet gun and disorderly conduct. He also faces counts of disturbing the peace and damaging property. According to Reuters, the professor told police he was “hunting rats” at the time of the incident.

Profile of the Visiting Professor

Carlos Portugal Gouvea is a legal scholar from Brazil. He earned his doctorate from Harvard Law School in 2008. He currently serves as an associate professor at the University of São Paulo Law School.

In Brazil, he leads a think tank focused on social and environmental justice. His arrest has surprised the academic community. Neither he nor an attorney listed in court records has responded to requests for comment from major news outlets.

The arrest of a Harvard professor highlights ongoing campus safety concerns. This incident will likely have significant professional consequences for the legal scholar. The case continues to develop as the community seeks clarity.

Info at your fingertips

What charges does Carlos Portugal Gouvea face?

He faces charges for illegally discharging a pellet gun and disorderly conduct. Additional counts include disturbing the peace and damaging property. These are misdemeanor offenses in Massachusetts.

Has Harvard University commented on the incident?

Yes, a Harvard Law School spokesperson confirmed Gouvea was placed on administrative leave. The school stated it is seeking to learn more about the matter. No further disciplinary actions have been announced publicly.

Was the synagogue the intended target?

Authorities have stated they do not believe the synagogue was the intended target. The incident occurred near the building but was not directed at it. The investigation is ongoing according to Associated Press reports.

What is Gouvea’s professional background?

He is an associate professor at the University of São Paulo Law School in Brazil. He also leads a Brazilian think tank focused on justice issues. Gouvea earned his Harvard Law doctorate in 2008.

When is his next court date?

Gouvea is scheduled to appear in Brookline District Court in early November. He was released on personal recognizance after his arraignment. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.