Italian courts issue major sentences to organized crime clans

Italian courts have issued significant sentences against members of organized crime clans in both Puglia and Sicily.

In Andria, the Bari District Anti-Mafia Directorate concluded an investigation into the Pesce-Pistillo clan. Three individuals received prison sentences: Oscar Davide Pesce and Gianluca Pesce were sentenced to 9 and 8 years respectively, while Fabrizio Pesce received 4 years and 10 months with house arrest. The charges included extortion and robbery aggravated by mafia association, following an investigation triggered by an explosion in the Monticelli neighborhood in March 2023. The clan was accused of targeting at least four local entrepreneurs through threats and violence.

In Sicily, the Court of Palermo handed down a total of 150 years and 8 months in prison to 15 members of the Villaseta and Porto Empedocle clans. The convictions stem from crimes including drug trafficking, extortion, and intimidation involving firearms. Key figures James Burgio and Salvatore Prestia received 20 years each, while other leaders such as Pietro Capraro and Gaetano Licata also received heavy sentences. The crimes targeted local businesses, including a bakery and a fruit and vegetable shop.