Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni is under investigation by the Milan Public Prosecutor’s Office for alleged underage prostitution. According to prosecutors Bruna Albertini and Rosaria Stagnaro, the footballer allegedly coordinated with event promoter Alessio Salamone to arrange a sexual encounter with a 17-year-old girl. Bastoni’s legal representative, Salvatore Scuto, has formally denied the accusations, stating that the athlete never engaged in paid sexual relations, particularly with minors.
How the investigation into the Ma.De. agency expanded
The investigation centers on the activities of the event agency Ma.De., owned by Deborah Ronchi and her partner, Emanuele Buttini. According to court filings, the agency allegedly offered a “tutto compreso” (all-inclusive) service to professional footballers, which included the facilitation of sexual encounters. In April, Italian authorities placed Ronchi, Buttini, Salamone, and Amilton Luan Fraga Luz under house arrest on charges of criminal conspiracy aimed at aiding and exploiting prostitution. The scope of the inquiry has since widened to include allegations of child prostitution, supported by digital communications recovered by investigators.
Prosecutors have identified several high-profile Serie A players in their ongoing investigation. In addition to Bastoni, reports indicate that authorities intend to summon figures such as Daniel Maldini, Riccardo Calafiori, and Kevin Bonifazi to provide testimony regarding the agency’s operations.
What do the recovered chat logs reveal?
Evidence presented by the prosecution relies heavily on text messages exchanged between July 9 and July 10, 2020. Transcripts cited by the Milan Prosecutor’s Office show that Salamone communicated with Bastoni regarding a 17-year-old girl’s availability. In the messages, Salamone allegedly confirmed the girl was willing to meet the player, provided that Bastoni ensured she was driven back home the following morning. At 4:16 a.m. on July 10, the minor sent a message to Salamone confirming she was staying at the defender’s residence.
How were the logistics of these encounters managed?
The prosecution alleges that the arrangements involved specific planning, including the use of an apartment made available by Deborah Ronchi. Details from the investigation suggest that these meetings were often structured around specific social parameters, such as small gatherings involving sushi. Bastoni reportedly expressed concern regarding the costs associated with these arrangements, including taxi fares and food expenses, while Salamone managed the logistics and communication with the female guests.
Pro Tip: Understanding legal defense in Italian investigations
In the Italian legal system, an avviso di garanzia (notice of investigation) is a formal notification that allows a suspect to appoint a lawyer and begin preparing a defense. It does not imply guilt but indicates that the individual is under official scrutiny. Bastoni is scheduled to undergo questioning regarding these allegations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific charges against Alessandro Bastoni?
Bastoni is accused of underage prostitution. The prosecution alleges he conspired with agency staff to organize a sexual encounter with a 17-year-old girl.
Has the player responded to the allegations?
Yes. His lawyer, Salvatore Scuto, issued a statement categorically denying that his client has ever engaged in paid sexual relations or had such encounters with minors.
Who else is under investigation in this case?
The investigation primarily targets the operators of the Ma.De. agency, including Deborah Ronchi, Emanuele Buttini, and Alessio Salamone, who were previously arrested on charges related to the exploitation of prostitution.
What happens to the witnesses mentioned in the case?
Prosecutors have indicated that several other Serie A players, including Daniel Maldini and Riccardo Calafiori, will be called to testify as witnesses as the inquiry continues.
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