This text details the inquiry into former Sicilian President Raffaele Cuffaro regarding alleged trafficking in influence within the regional healthcare system. Here’s a breakdown of the key points and Cuffaro’s defense:
The Allegations:
* Trafficking in Influence: Cuffaro is accused of using his influence to benefit certain individuals and companies in connection with healthcare tenders and appointments. Specifically, the investigation focuses on appointments at Villa Sofia hospital, a tender involving Dussmann, and potentially benefits given to Alessandro Vetro.
* Advance release of Tender Notices: Cuffaro’s former aide, Vito Raso, is accused of providing advance access to tender notices to “political friends,” essentially giving them an unfair advantage. Raso’s office was described as a hub for political maneuvering.
Cuffaro’s Defense & Statements:
* “Some Errors” but No Personal gain: Cuffaro admitted to “some errors” but insists he didn’t personally benefit from any advantages given to Antonio Iacono.He claims he didn’t ask for benefits.
* Roberto Colletti’s appointment: He defended recommending Roberto Colletti for a position, arguing it was a “relegation” rather than an advancement, as Colletti was moved from a prosperous role at Civico to a commissioner position at Villa Sofia. He expected Colletti would eventually become a General Director.
* Competition Structure: He claims the competition for positions was limited to those already working within the system due to the COVID-19 situation, meaning everyone who applied was ultimately hired.
* alessandro Vetro: He denies sending money to Tomasino through carmelo Pace and states Vetro was “largely excluded” from competitions he entered.
* Dussmann Tender: He claims his intervention regarding Dussmann wasn’t to help them win the tender, but to address their concerns about unfair treatment in a previous tender they had already won. He maintains he was disinterested in the subcontracting aspect.
* Tender Notice Release: He defends the early release of tender notices as a way to facilitate participation by third-sector associations, not as a secret preview.
* Right to Remain Silent: He invoked his right to remain silent to adequately prepare his defense, stating he doesn’t “recognize” himself in some of the transcripts, especially those related to conversations with Alessandro Vetro.
Investigative Details:
* House Arrest: Cuffaro was initially placed under house arrest.
* Interaction Ban: the prosecutor requested a ban on communication as part of the precautionary measures.
* Investigating Judge’s Assessment: The investigating judge noted Cuffaro’s willingness to cooperate with spontaneous statements but also acknowledged his need to review the evidence before fully responding.
* Vito Raso’s Obligation to Report: Raso is under investigation and has been ordered to report to the judicial police.
In essence, Cuffaro is attempting to portray his actions as helpful interventions for individuals he believed were unfairly treated, rather than corrupt acts aimed at personal gain or illicitly influencing the healthcare system. He emphasizes his long-standing relationships and argues that his actions were motivated by a desire to correct past wrongs or ensure fair consideration.However,the investigation suggests a pattern of using his position to provide preferential treatment and access to facts.
