Fezza-De Vivo clan trial advances in Salerno

The massive trial stemming from the ‘Summa Mater’ investigation by the Salerno District Anti-Mafia Directorate against the Fezza-De Vivo criminal clan has entered a critical phase. Out of 84 defendants, 55 have opted for a summary trial (rito abbreviato) to define their legal positions.

The charges against the group are extensive, ranging from mafia-style criminal association and international drug trafficking to attempted murder, extortion, money laundering, and the theft and laundering of high-end vehicles.

A key development in the proceedings involved the legality of evidence obtained from Sky ECC encrypted phones. The judge rejected defense challenges regarding the acquisition of these chats, which were decrypted by French authorities via a European Investigation Order. The ruling established that the legality and protection of rights regarding such data are to be assessed during the merits of the trial rather than through a preliminary check.