Antonino Mercuri on trial in Paris for alleged sectarian exploitation

Antonino Mercuri, a 64-year-old osteopath, is standing trial in Paris facing multiple charges including abuse of weakness, money laundering, tax fraud, and the illegal practice of medicine. Prosecutors allege that between 2012 and 2018, Mercuri exerted sectarian influence over 51 vulnerable patients, using esoteric claims of healing powers to exploit them.

Investigations suggest that some victims were isolated from their social circles and pressured into transferring significant assets, including real estate and life savings, to the practitioner. The total amount involved in the alleged fraud and tax evasion is estimated at approximately 4.1 million euros. Some victims reportedly faced severe financial consequences, such as being banned from banking or taking out consumer loans to fund their association with the group.

Mercuri, who bolstered his reputation by claiming to have treated former French President François Mitterrand, denies all charges. His legal defense has characterized the proceedings as a ‘trial of witchcraft,’ arguing that the court is unfairly judging the nature of alternative medicine and energy healing practices rather than established facts.