Pro rodeo star accused of rape in Sacramento can compete again as league lifts suspension
A professional bull rider suspended from competition as he faced rape charges in Sacramento can compete again, league officials announced.
Professional Bull Riding officials citing “recent developments” said Joao Ricardo Vieira can compete in all league-sanctioned events as he faces proceedings in Sacramento Superior Court.
“Upon recent developments and information provided to the league, Joao Ricardo Vieira has been reinstated and is eligible to participate in all PBR-sanctioned events,” Professional Bull Riding CEO Sean Gleason said in a statement posted to the league’s social media accounts, adding that the league will “continue to monitor the situation.”
The 38-year-old Vieira was arrested on a felony warrant Aug. 4 in Sacramento suspected of felony rape, forced oral copulation and penetration by a foreign object, according to Sacramento County Jail records. The Brazilian rodeo star competed in Sacramento in January at the PBR Wrangler Long Live Cowboys Classic.
Vieira had been held in lieu of $2 million bail on the allegations. Bail was later reduced to $300,000, said Sacramento Superior Court officials.
Vieira returns Oct. 5 to Sacramento Superior Court.
This story was originally published August 26, 2022 at 2:26 PM.
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