Milan Court Postpones Preliminary Hearing for Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè Amid Fraud Charges
On Wednesday, the preliminary hearings judge in Milan, Tiziana Gueli, delayed a hearing concerning Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè, who faces aggravated fraud charges related to the INPS social security and pensions agency over claims associated with the COVID layoff fund. The new hearing is scheduled for May 20.
The postponement occurred after Santanchè replaced a member of her defense team. Her new attorney, Salvatore Pino, requested more time to familiarize himself with the case, leading to the judge's decision. Nicolò Pelanda, another defense attorney, was unable to attend the hearing as he was involved in another trial.
In an update on the case, Pino indicated that Santanchè might testify, stating, "We are evaluating the possibility." He added that after speaking with her, she appeared calm despite the ongoing legal challenges.
Additionally, Pino announced that INPS would withdraw as a civil plaintiff in the matter, explaining that the agency had already received full compensation from Santanchè’s former companies.
The judge's decision will help determine whether Santanchè will face indictment. She has publicly stated her intention to resign if indicted. Legal sources indicate that at least two more preliminary hearings will take place before a final decision on indictment is reached.
Santanchè, her life partner Dimitri Kunz, and two companies are accused of committing fraud against INPS by improperly claiming COVID redundancy funds while their employees were supposedly still working.
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