<h1>Brazil's ex-president arrested ahead of 27-year sentence for leading attempted coup, supporters decry political persecution</h1> Brazilian federal police preemptively arrested a former president at his residence in Brasilia on order of the Supreme Court, days before he was to begin a 27-year prison sentence for leading an attempted coup. The individual, already under house arrest and unsuccessfully appealing his conviction, was transferred to federal police headquarters. Brazilian law requires that sentences begin in prison, so his ultimate place of incarceration remains to be determined. The former leader and allies were convicted of attempting to overthrow democratic institutions, leading an armed criminal organization, and attempting the violent abolition of the democratic rule of law. Supporters allege political persecution and plan demonstrations.