Former Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano is under investigation in Rome for embezzlement and disclosure of official secrets according to reports.
Sangiuliano is accused of misappropriation and revealing official secrets, according to Corriere della Sera.
The scandal concerns suspicions that influencer Maria Rosaria Boccia accessed confidential emails about the G7 Culture meeting. There are also claims that public money funded her involvement in official engagements and trips.
The investigation will be transferred to the court of ministers.
The allegations stem from claims the entrepreneur made regarding trips taken with the former minister, including long-distance journeys and events unrelated to Sangiuliano’s role. Boccia also claims she participated in meetings ahead of the G7.
Sangiuliano resigned to protect his honour and demonstrate “absolute transparency and correctness” without involving the government. He plans to take legal action, beginning with a complaint to criminal prosecutors.
Sangiuliano, 62, admitted to a relationship with Boccia in an interview with state broadcaster Rai before he resigned. He denied that Boccia accessed classified information or that public money was spent on her. He also stated Boccia was set to become an advisor for major events, but he revoked her appointment.
The Lazio Audit Court has also launched an investigation into the case.
