Vatican drama: Former choir line convicted of fraud!

Vatican drama: Former choir line convicted of fraud!

In the Vatican, a procedure against the former leadership of the Chor of the Sistine Chapel, which was characterized by serious allegations such as money laundering and fraud, led to strict judgments. All accused were convicted, including the former choir director Massimo Palombella and the finance director Michelangelo Nardella. Palombella received a prison sentence of three years and two months and a fine of 9,000 euros, while Nardella was sentenced to four years and eight months, combined with a fine of 7,000 euros. His wife, Simona Rossi, has to pay in prison for two years and a fine of 5,000 euros. All convicts were also withdrawn from the Vatican's right to public office, as reported on the KathPress website.

The accusations included abuse of office and the illegal use of funds intended for concerts for large Italian companies. Overall, the accused have to repay illegal profits of around 300,000 euros, in addition they bear the process costs. However, some allegations were dropped due to lack of evidence. The process that started in May 2023 was conducted under the direction of judge Giuseppe Pignatone. Pope Francis had already initiated investigations in 2018 after irregularities were found that led to the suspension.

serious allegations and central statements

Witnesses, including Archbishop Georg Gänswein, who interviewed the subordinates of Palombella and Nardella, indicated considerable grievances. Gänswein spoke of improper practices and financial irregularities in the choir. Although some of the allegations could not be proven, the affair remains a severe blow to the papal choir of the Sistine Chapel, which has existed since 1471 and is the oldest continuously active choir in the world. The choir has accompanied significant religious ceremonies and liturgies in the Vatican.

The convictions and the measures defined in the judgment are a clear message that the Vatican takes the integrity of its institutions seriously. The defendants not only suffered personal punishments through the decision of the court, but also the loss of their reputation and their life's work.