Fraud trial begins for man linked to 1.2 million euro scam targeting clergy

A trial is underway in Piacenza, Italy, involving a 76-year-old Italian man accused of acting as a “fake lawyer” in a large-scale fraud scheme. The investigation centers on an organized criminal group composed of a four-member family from Bosnia and Herzegovina and their relatives.

The group allegedly defrauded three Italian priests and one religious woman of approximately 1.2 million euros. According to prosecutors, the gang targeted elderly clergy and highly religious individuals, exploiting their empathy and solidarity through fabricated stories of severe illness, financial crises, legal disputes, or deportation threats.

The 76-year-old defendant admitted in court to his role, stating he was hired to pose as a legal representative to validate the group's lies and pressure victims into making payments. He claimed he received only 2,000 euros for his involvement and felt he was also deceived by the group. While members of the Bosnian family previously reached plea bargains, this individual is currently facing a standard trial procedure.