Ronaldinho's brother convicted of financial crime

SAO PAULO (AP) -- A Brazilian court has convicted Ronaldinho's brother and agent of tax evasion and money laundering and sentenced him to more than five years in prison.

A federal court said Tuesday that Roberto de Assis Moreira didn't declare money kept abroad and provided false information while explaining the transfer of funds to Brazil.

The sentencing says Assis will be held in a semi-open facility, in which he could leave during the day and return at night.

Assis' lawyers could not be immediately reached for comment, but the former player can appeal.

Assis has been Ronaldinho's agent since the two-time FIFA player of the year began playing professionally. He played a key role in Ronaldinho's transfer from AC Milan to Flamengo, marking the player's return to Brazilian football after several years in Europe.

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