Trapani
Despite the reduction due to the abbreviated procedure, the sentences imposed were severe
Of Sergio Randazzo – 02 July 2024
On June 25, the Preliminary Hearing Judge (GUP) of the Court of Palermo issued a sentence of conviction against seven defendants involved in the “Virgilio” operation, dating back to February 17, 2023. The defendants were found guilty of criminal association aimed at trafficking and dealing in narcotics in the popular neighborhood of Sappusi in Marsala.
Punishments Inflicted
Despite the reduction due to the abbreviated procedure, the sentences imposed were severe:
- Defendants from Marsala: 5 people convicted.
- Defendants from Palermo: 2 people convicted.
- Pene: from 7 to 19 years of imprisonment.
Investigation and Prosecution
The preliminary investigations and the prosecution during the trial were conducted by the District Attorney’s Office of Palermo. The initial investigations were coordinated by the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Marsala and carried out by the Carabinieri of the Marsala Company Command, leading to the application of precautionary measures for 14 suspects on 17 February 2023.
Previous Sentences and Ongoing Trial
On December 14, two other defendants in the same “Virgilio” operation, not charged with criminal association, were sentenced by the Preliminary Investigations Judge (GIP) of the Marsala Court, with sentences ranging between 5 and 8 years of imprisonment.
The sentence of June 25 confirms the existence of a real criminal association aimed at drug trafficking in the Sappusi district of Marsala.
Ordinary Process
The trial is still ongoing before the Court of Marsala for another eleven defendants involved in the same investigation, who have opted for the ordinary procedure.
Operation “Virgilio” highlighted the activity of a criminal organization well-established in the territory, involved in drug trafficking and operating mainly in the working-class neighborhood of Sappusi in Marsala.
