Manuel Adorni granted extension to justify assets in illicit enrichment probe

Federal Judge Ariel Lijo has granted Manuel Adorni, the former Chief of Cabinet for the Javier Milei administration, a 15-day extension to justify his assets. The extension follows a request from Adorni’s defense, which cited the need to access files used to identify patrimonial inconsistencies.

The extension is part of an investigation led by prosecutor Gerardo Pollicita into alleged illicit enrichment. The probe covers the period from Adorni’s entry into public service in December 2023 until his resignation in June 2026. The investigation includes Adorni and his wife, Bettina Angeletti, focusing on more than 20 points of concern regarding assets, investments, and expenditures.

Key areas of inquiry include the origin of declared cash in U.S. dollars, the nature of loans from relatives Silvia Pais and Norma Zuccolo, and the financing of a Jeep and property at the Indio Cuá country club. Specifically, prosecutors are examining approximately US$402,578 related to real estate and renovations, including a US$245,000 payment to contractor Matías Tabar. If the upcoming explanations are deemed insufficient, Adorni may be summoned for a formal indictment.