RIO DE JANEIRO — On Thursday, a judge delivered lengthy prison sentences to two ex-police officers for their involvement in the 2018 assassination of Marielle Franco, a prominent advocate for Brazil’s political left, whose murder generated widespread outrage.

Ronnie Lessa received a sentence of 78 years and 9 months, while Élcio de Queiroz was sentenced to 59 years behind bars for the drive-by shooting that occurred on March 14, 2018, resulting in the deaths of Franco and her driver, Anderson Gomes. The jury concluded that Lessa fired the shots and de Queiroz acted as the getaway driver during the attack.

Both men were apprehended in 2019 and had previously entered plea deals admitting their involvement. However, the jury ultimately had the decisive verdict on their guilt regarding homicide and additional charges. While the outcome was anticipated, it offers a degree of comfort to those who viewed Franco, a Black and bisexual woman, as a martyr and believed her killing represented an assault on democratic values, raising fears that such a heinous crime would not see justice served.

Prosecutors had sought the maximum penalty of 84 years for each of the defendants on three counts. In Brazil, life sentences are not permitted, which means the maximum time either man will serve is limited to 30 years.

However, the sentencing is viewed as only a preliminary step toward achieving justice, as there is still an upcoming trial for those suspected of orchestrating Franco’s assassination.

Known simply as Marielle, she grew up in one of Rio de Janeiro’s impoverished neighborhoods, the favelas. Franco gained recognition for her dedication to improving the living conditions of everyday citizens. After her election in 2016, she took a strong stance against violence directed at women while championing human rights and advocating for social initiatives.