In Avellino, a former mayor and three others have been arrested in connection with an investigation into embezzlement and undue inducement. Gianluca Festa, the former mayor of Avellino, was placed under house arrest along with architect Fabio Guerriero, who is the brother of a municipal councilor, and one municipal manager. The investigation is being conducted by the Avellino prosecutor’s office and has led to searches on several individuals involved with a Serie B basketball team.

The central focus of the investigation is on the basketball team that Festa was linked to. Investigators suspect that Festa secured sponsorships from companies that had received contracts and assignments from the Municipality of Avellino, leading them to hypothesize the existence of a criminal association. Festa had a strong passion for basketball and his efforts to save the bankrupt city team in Avellino are now under scrutiny in relation to these alleged crimes.

Following the searches and arrests, Festa expressed his belief that there was no wrongdoing and that the investigations would not lead to any substantial findings. He stated that he had no knowledge of any illegal activities and that he had always acted in good faith towards his constituents. Despite facing charges of corruption, criminal association, public disturbance, and forgery of public documents, Festa remains optimistic about the outcome and maintains his innocence.

As legal proceedings progress, Festa is committed to defending his integrity and reputation while cooperating with authorities to clear his name. The investigations continue as other individuals linked to the case face charges related to contracts directed towards the Municipality of Avellino and connections between companies supporting financially both parties involved in this case.