Marche reconstruction investigation: suspects remain silent

An investigation by the Ancona District Anti-Mafia Directorate into post-earthquake reconstruction efforts in the Marche region has led to the arrest of several individuals. Fabio Pistarelli, former chief of staff to the regional president, and entrepreneur Enrico Crucianelli have both exercised their right to remain silent during precautionary interrogations before judge Sonia Piermartini.

Pistarelli’s defense team is preparing a written memorandum and intends to appeal his detention, noting that he is not accused of mafia association or the wasting of public funds. Crucianelli’s legal counsel stated that the decision to remain silent was necessary to review the 738-page precautionary order. They emphasized that Crucianelli’s company, Rest Edile, remains fully operational and is not subject to judicial seizure.

The investigation also involves allegations of bid-rigging and corruption regarding the Monachette project. Intercepted communications suggest that engineer Michele Pompili was allegedly promised high-level management roles at Erdis in exchange for facilitating specific contracts. Pompili, who faces charges related to these activities, has recently been reassigned as the sole project manager for the Monachette intervention.