Following an 18-month trial, the Vatican Tribunal delivered its verdict in the case of financial crimes in the Sistine Chapel Choir. The former director of the papal choir, Salesian priest Massimo Palombella, was sentenced to three years and two months in prison and must also pay a fine of approximately £8,200. He is additionally banned from holding public office during his sentence.
The former financial director of the choir, Michelangelo Nardella, received a sentence of four years and eight months in prison and must pay a fine of about £6,500. The director’s wife, Simona Rossi, who was also on trial, was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of roughly £4,000.
Palombella and Nardella were also found guilty of abuse of office related to organising concerts for prominent Italian companies. During the proceedings conducted by the Vatican justice system, more than £110,000 was confiscated from the priest and approximately £107,000 from Nardella. The convicted must also cover the costs of the proceedings.
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