A judge in Palmi has ordered asset seizures and issued three professional bans following a major fraud investigation. Authorities confiscated nearly €5.7 million in assets after uncovering a criminal network exploiting Italy’s building renovation incentives.
The Financial Police, coordinated by Deputy Prosecutor Santo Melidona, dismantled the scheme which created and monetized fictitious tax credits. The ringleader—a Palmi-based professional—orchestrated the fraud through four companies registered in Palmi, Fabriano (Ancona), and Rome.
Prosecutors allege the group artificially generated over €4.6 million in fake tax credits by invoicing for construction projects that were either incomplete or never started. Most credits entered circulation, causing significant state revenue losses.
Evidence reveals suspects secured contracts nationwide while systematically obstructing investigators. Wiretaps captured suspects coaching clients on responses to police inquiries. The ringleader even attempted to create a media “smoke screen” through a televised interview.
One defendant has already plea-bargained, repaying €525,000 to state coffers. The Palmi judge imposed temporary bans: eight months for the mastermind and six months for two associates, barring them from corporate leadership roles.