APLICABILIDADE DO ARTIGO 155 DO CÓDIGO PENAL PARA OS FURTOS DE CABOS DE ENERGIA E TELEFONIA NO BRASIL

This article analyzes the applicability of Article 155 of the Brazilian Penal Code in combating the theft of energy and telecommunication cables in Brazil, focusing on the economic, social, and public security impacts. The research highlights that, despite the frequent application of the principle of insignificance, this criminal practice compromises essential infrastructure and causes significant losses to society. Through the analysis of jurisprudence from the Federal Supreme Court (STF) and the Superior Court of Justice (STJ), a trend toward stricter punishment in such cases is identified, although conflicting decisions still exist. The article also discusses foreign legislative models and presents proposals for improving Brazilian legislation, including Bill No. 2,459/2022, which proposes increased penalties for this type of crime. It is concluded that a stricter penal response, combined with monitoring and enforcement policies, can reduce the incidence of thefts and ensure greater protection for public infrastructure.