Jair Bolsonaro, under house arrest and facing a lengthy prison term, told a judge that he damaged his electronic ankle monitor during a hallucination triggered by new medication. He claimed he believed the device was bugged.
Police detained the former president at his Brasília home after security systems recorded evidence of tampering. Authorities feared he was preparing an escape to a foreign embassy to evade incarceration.
Bolsonaro has been living under judicial restrictions since August, following his conviction for orchestrating a failed coup. His 27-year sentence was expected to be enforced within days when the monitor alert occurred.
At his custody hearing, the 70-year-old said he had taken a powerful analgesic and an antidepressant shortly before the episode. He described a sudden wave of paranoia that convinced him his ankle tag contained a hidden listening device.
Analysts have cast doubt on the explanation, citing earlier footage in which he offered a different justification. Meanwhile, reactions abroad, including those from previous allies, have been restrained as Brazil proceeds with its legal process.