Lavitola’s strategy to leave prison rests on three “logical proofs,” but his former partner opposes house arrest

Valter Lavitola’s path out of prison remains steep, despite a defense built around what his lawyers call three “logical proofs.” His attorneys, Sergio Cola and his son Arturo, prepared a 71-page memorandum for the review hearing scheduled for the following morning.

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It is true, I am the principal.

The defense says Lavitola’s cooperation is demonstrated by his admissions. On Aug. 12, he told prosecutor Edoardo De Santis and investigating judge Iole Moricca, “It is true, I am the principal.” He later made further statements from prison about his friend Sigfrido Ranucci, which his lawyers present as evidence of his involvement and collaboration.

The question of flight risk is more difficult. Investigators point to Lavitola’s contacts in Brazil, where he is also under investigation for corruption, and in Africa. They also cite his attempt to reach Cameroon on July 3, when Carabinieri investigators recaptured him. His lawyers respond that they submitted emails sent to Colonel Dario Ferrara, who leads the Carabinieri unit, to report Lavitola’s movements. They say trips to Milan and Naples were documented promptly.

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We attached the emails sent promptly to Colonel Dario Ferrara to inform him about Lavitola’s movements. Some trips to Milan and Naples were documented in good time, and we will explain this to the judges.

The defense also argues that the risk of evidence tampering has been partly reduced by Lavitola’s “confession.” Prosecutors remain watchful, however, and do not consider house arrest a sufficient guarantee. They question whether Lavitola could re-establish contact with fixer Gomes Clesio Tavares and agree on convenient versions of events if given a less restrictive measure. His former partner, Natalia Potenza, has asked prosecutors to hear her testimony.

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You would hit the jackpot, and in two years you would become president.