Alessandro Bastoni, the Inter Milan and Italian national team defender, is under investigation by the Milan Prosecutor’s Office for alleged child prostitution. Prosecutors are investigating a hypothesis that Bastoni had a paid sexual encounter with a girl who was 17 years old in 2020, as part of a wider probe into a Milanese event agency.
What are the specific allegations against Alessandro Bastoni?
The Milan Prosecutor’s Office has placed Bastoni in the register of suspects following allegations regarding a paid sexual relationship with a minor. According to the investigation, the girl involved was 17 years old at the time of the alleged incident in 2020.
Bastoni has been summoned to provide an official statement and explanation regarding the matter. His interrogation is scheduled for Friday, July 3. While the young woman involved testified as a witness and denied the relationship, prosecutors state that the details of the encounter are documented within the case files.
How does the Ma.De Milano agency connect to the investigation?
The investigation, coordinated by prosecutor Rosaria Stagnaro and deputy prosecutor Bruna Albertini, focuses on a suspected criminal network operating through Ma.De Milano. This event agency is alleged to have functioned as a “screen” for a prostitution and exploitation ring.
Investigators from the Guardia di Finanza (Gdf) Economic and Financial Police report that the agency organized “all-inclusive” events at luxury hotels and high-end Milanese clubs. These events reportedly targeted VIP clients and occasionally involved the use of drugs. The probe suggests that escorts were encouraged to “catch” high-profile targets, specifically Serie A players and other professional athletes.
Investigators are currently reconstructing a money trail that suggests the organizers of this alleged ring may have collected at least 50% of every payment made for sexual services.
Which football players are involved in the legal proceedings?
The investigation has identified several prominent names in professional football, though their legal statuses vary significantly. It is essential to distinguish between those under investigation and those appearing as witnesses.
Players appearing as witnesses
To clarify the connections between the agency and various athletes, prosecutors have decided to hear testimony from several players who are not considered suspects. These individuals include:
- Daniel Maldini: Atalanta striker.
- Riccardo Calafiori: Arsenal defender.
- Kevin Bonifazi: Bologna defender.
Previous arrests in the case
The current developments follow an initial breakthrough on April 21, when four individuals were placed under house arrest. Among them were Emanuele Buttini and Deborah Ronchi, a couple whom investigators suspect acted as the “promoters and leaders” of the criminal association. Both individuals have rejected these allegations.
How are authorities using digital forensics to solve the case?
A major component of this investigation involves the intensive analysis of seized electronic communications. The Gdf is currently processing mobile phones confiscated from both the arrested individuals and the women involved in the ring.
Authorities are utilizing a specific list of “keywords” to scan chat histories and messages. This list reportedly includes over 60 surnames of well-known football players. This method of digital forensic analysis is becoming a standard trend in tackling organized exploitation rings, allowing law enforcement to map out connections that are not immediately apparent through traditional surveillance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alessandro Bastoni a suspect in a criminal case?
Yes, he has been placed in the register of suspects (indagati) by the Milan Prosecutor’s Office regarding the hypothesis of child prostitution.
When will Bastoni face questioning?
He is scheduled to appear for an interrogation on Friday, July 3.
What is the role of Ma.De Milano in this probe?
Prosecutors suspect the agency acted as a front to organize luxury events that facilitated a prostitution and exploitation ring targeting VIPs.
Are Daniel Maldini and Riccardo Calafiori suspects?
No, they have been summoned to provide testimony strictly as witnesses.
Stay informed on the latest developments in this ongoing investigation. Have thoughts on the impact of these cases on professional sports? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for breaking updates.
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