ASP Scandal: Bribery Allegations in Medical Supply Purchases
Palermo’s Asp (Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale) is facing a latest corruption scandal involving alleged kickbacks tied to the procurement of medical supplies, according to recent reports. Leonardo Gaziano, a physician with the Asp, is under investigation for allegedly accepting bribes from healthcare companies in exchange for directing patients to their facilities.
The investigation, revealed by PalermoToday, centers on allegations that Gaziano received not only monetary payments but similarly gifts such as fresh seafood – specifically shrimp and lobster – wine, and olive oil. Prosecutors allege that these inducements were offered to influence Gaziano’s referrals, boosting business for the implicated healthcare firms.
The alleged scheme extends beyond preferential patient referrals. Investigators are also examining claims that Gaziano, along with two other healthcare professionals – a physiotherapist from the Enrico Albanese hospital and a neuropsychologist from the Buccheri La Ferla hospital – accepted bribes to issue fraudulent health certificates. These certificates allegedly facilitated the approval of disability pensions for individuals who did not meet the necessary medical criteria.
Separately, Francesco Cerrito, director of the socio-healthcare integration department of the Asp of Palermo, confessed to receiving bribes from Mario Lupo, president of the Samot organization. Cerrito was arrested on September 26, 2025, while accepting 2,000 euros hidden inside a gift box from Lupo, according to VideoMediterraneo. Cerrito’s confession detailed how he provided Lupo with information regarding Asp inspections of Samot, and expedited reimbursement procedures in exchange for the payments.
The president of the Sicilian Region, Renato Schifani, expressed concern over the developments, suggesting the incidents may be indicative of broader systemic issues within the public administration. Schifani also stated that the appointment of a new general director for the Asp of Palermo, a position that has been vacant for several months, is being expedited.
The Samot scandal involved Lupo allegedly announcing the bribe payment while on the phone with Cerrito, reportedly canticchiaing during the call, according to Repubblica. Giorgio Trizzino, a former M5S deputy and founder of Samot, expressed shock at the arrests, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations.
The investigation is ongoing, and the Gip (Giudice per le Indagini Preliminari – Preliminary Investigations Judge) is currently reviewing the evidence to determine the appropriate precautionary measures for the individuals involved. No decision has been made regarding potential arrests or further investigative steps.