Palermo Court acquits Monreale man of citizenship income fraud

The Court of Palermo has acquitted a 26-year-old man from Monreale of charges involving the fraudulent receipt of over 8,000 euros in citizenship income (Reddito di cittadinanza). The court ruled “perché il fatto non sussiste” (because the fact does not exist), accepting the defense's argument that the accusations were unfounded.

The case originated in July 2023 following an anonymous tip that prompted the Guardia di Finanza to investigate the defendant's ISEE documentation and living conditions. Prosecutors had sought a one-year prison sentence, alleging aggravated fraud against a public entity and undue perception of money.

During the trial, the defense presented accounting evidence to verify the accuracy of the defendant's economic status, family composition, and residency. A representative from the Guardia di Finanza testified in court that they were unable to conduct sufficient investigations to prove the defendant's responsibility. The defendant maintained that the information provided in the application forms, which were prepared by a local CAF, was truthful.