Spoleto property seized in 1.5 million euro earthquake fund fraud probe

Authorities in Spoleto have seized a property following an investigation into the fraudulent acquisition of 1.5 million euros in post-earthquake reconstruction funds. The investigation, conducted by the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Finanza, targets a property owner and a surveyor acting as the works director.

Investigators allege that the individuals submitted false declarations claiming the building was inhabited and met hygienic-sanitary standards during the 2016 seismic events. Furthermore, inspections by the Umbria Special Reconstruction Office revealed that only 30% of the works had actually been completed, despite claims for 70% of the total allocated funds.

The suspects face charges of aggravated fraud against the state, ideological falsehood in a public act, and failure to disclose a conflict of interest. It is alleged that the construction company performing the work is owned by the surveyor's nephew, while the surveyor himself previously owned the firm and held multiple roles including designer and works director.