Mario Adinolfi Remains Under House Arrest in Italy

An Italian court rejected a request to lift the house arrest of former parliamentarian Mario Adinolfi, the founder of the Popolo della Famiglia movement. Prosecutors allege he ran a fraudulent scheme called “Scommessa Collettiva,” promising investors high returns and collecting nearly €5 million, much of which was allegedly spent on luxury items. Charges include illegal financial activity, abusive collection of savings, aggravated fraud and tax evasion. The judge cited a concrete risk of recidivism, so Adinolfi may communicate only with his lawyers, close family and designated contacts, pending a possible appeal to a higher review panel.

His legal team plans to appeal the decision. Authorities say only a portion of the funds actually went into betting activities, while the rest covered private expenses. The case highlights concerns over illicit financial operations linked to political figures.