Vatican court convicts former choir leaders for financial fraud
The Vatican has reached a verdict regarding the former management of the Sistine Chapel Choir. Three people, including a priest, were charged with embezzlement, money laundering, and fraud. They were sentenced to prison terms and fines and banned from public office.
After a year-and-a-half-long trial, the Vatican Tribunal announced the verdict regarding financial crimes in the Sistine Chapel Choir. Salesian priest Massimo Palombella, the former director of the papal choir, was sentenced to three years and two months in prison. He must also pay a fine of approximately 13,600 CAD and is banned from holding public office for the duration of his sentence.
The former financial director of the choir, Michelangelo Nardella, was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison and must pay a fine of approximately 10,900 CAD. The director's wife, Simona Rossi, who was also involved, was sentenced to two years in prison and a fine of approximately 6,800 CAD.
Palombella and Nardella were also found guilty of abuse of office related to organizing concerts for leading Italian companies. The Vatican justice system confiscated more than 182,000 CAD from the priest and 177,000 CAD from Nardella during the proceedings. The convicted individuals must also pay the costs of the proceedings.
The verdicts are not final. The defendants' defence has already announced an appeal.
Irregularities in the Sistine Chapel Choir
The Sistine Chapel Choir is one of the oldest in the world. It is primarily known for its performances during papal ceremonies and concerts in Italy and worldwide.
As reported by Vatican News, the investigation into this matter began five years ago. Parents of boys singing in the choir had previously reported numerous irregularities. They pointed out, among other things, that the institution participated in public events that did not align with its mission.
For example, in 2018, the choir performed at the Met Gala, a fashion event criticized by Church representatives. The choir director was suspended as a result of this incident, and a year later, Fr. Palombella resigned from leading the choir.
