Macerata anti-mafia investigation targets university construction project

An anti-mafia investigation by the Ancona District Anti-Mafia Directorate is examining allegations of corruption and bid-rigging related to the conversion of the ex Monachette convent into student housing in Macerata. The project, managed by Erdis to create 100 new beds, is central to the probe into a reconstruction clique.

Francesco Ascenzi, the head of the technical office at the University of Macerata, is accused of involvement in the alleged corruption and tender manipulation. Despite the investigation, University Rector John McCourt has expressed continued trust in Ascenzi, citing the principle of the presumption of innocence and the architect's long history of successful projects for the institution.

The investigation reportedly involves connections between various individuals, including Fabio Pistarelli, former chief of staff to the President of the Marche region, and construction figures such as Enrico Crucianelli. Critics have questioned the lack of preventive oversight regarding the awarding of contracts to specific firms. The legal proceedings continue, with several interrogations recently rescheduled by the judge.