1. a person who takes the law into their own hands by apprehending and punishing offenders without legal authority
The vigilante took justice into his own hands after the criminal was released on a technicality.
O vigilante tomou a justiça em suas próprias mãos depois que o criminoso foi liberado por uma questão técnica.
2. a member of a self-appointed group undertaking law enforcement without legal authority
The vigilante group patrolled the neighborhood at night to prevent crime.
O grupo de vigilantes patrulhava o bairro à noite para prevenir crimes.