Massimiliano Santini, a former communications aide to ex-Pesaro mayor Matteo Ricci and a co-suspect in a corruption investigation, remained silent during questioning by Pesaro prosecutors but later spoke extensively to journalists, directly accusing Ricci.
Santini declined to answer prosecutors’ questions, though he revealed he had hired new counsel ahead of a future meeting. This prompted his defense lawyer, Paola Righetti, to withdraw from the case last Monday. Speaking to reporters, Santini claimed to feel “foggy, lacking clear memories, and already imprisoned.” He contradicted Ricci’s assertions regarding the non-profit Associazione Opera Maestra – one of two groups awarded €509,000 in direct municipal contracts between 2019 and 2024, now under prosecutor scrutiny.
“Ricci knew Opera Maestra very well,” Santini stated, alleging the former mayor is “trying to wash his hands of everything” by claiming no direct involvement. Santini also cited Ricci’s acquaintance with Stefano Esposto, president of both non-profits and also under investigation, noting Ricci went mountain biking with Esposto “two or three times.” While Santini denied Ricci received money, he claimed Ricci “benefited” by using Santini’s house during a difficult period. Prosecutors allege this property was partly purchased with funds from irregular contracts.
Ricci firmly rejected Santini’s account, insisting he never handled contracts and suggesting he himself could be a victim if a collaborator – an apparent reference to Santini – betrayed his trust or violated rules. Ricci underwent five hours of questioning by prosecutor Maria Letizia Fucci on July 30, maintaining his innocence before returning to the heated regional election campaign, where he is the centre-left’s candidate for Regional President.
Santini’s interview reignited the controversy. “I was sorry to read Santini says he takes psychotropic drugs, feels foggy, lacks clear memories, and feels imprisoned,” Ricci responded. “The article is full of mud and lies. Therefore, I have instructed my lawyers to protect my reputation in all appropriate venues. Enough now.”
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