Overview
- At the preliminary hearing, GUP Andrea Romito acquitted Franchi of stalking with the formula “il fatto non sussiste” and accepted a trial on aggravated defamation and threats, partially upholding the prosecution.
- Prosecutors allege she sent denigratory WhatsApp messages to mutual acquaintances, issued threatening messages to the former consultant, and posted on Instagram in a way that led followers to identify and attack the woman.
- The case file includes an October 22 Instagram story showing champagne and a raised middle finger that prosecutors say reiterated an online “shitstorm” and misrepresented developments to further discredit the alleged victim.
- Defense lawyers welcomed the stalking acquittal, insisted Franchi is not a stalker, said they will contest the remaining counts, and she told Il Giornale she intends to seek psychological damages.
- Attorneys for the former consultant noted the judge found the alleged conduct potentially criminal and, after Franchi’s new media comments, accused her of a further defamatory attack and denied seeking a monetary settlement.