The alleged mastermind behind scams involving the sale of used cars in Peschiera del Garda has been arrested. Mauro Gianmoena has been placed in pre-trial detention for thirty counts of fraud against buyers who had paid for cars that were never delivered.
The seller’s modus operandi involved advertising cars on websites at attractive prices but requiring advance payment with the promise of delivery within twenty days. However, the vehicles were not actually available, and the seller only possessed them as rentals. Despite payments being made, the cars would never be delivered.
The Verona Public Prosecutor’s Office reconstructed the criminal activity through complaints filed by the defrauded buyers. At the request of the investigating magistrate, the judge also ordered the seizure of an equivalent amount of 274,835 euros, corresponding to the proceeds of the scams. In addition, a villa in Peschiera del Garda, shares in two capital companies, eight valuable watches, and some jewelry were seized.
The investigations conducted by the Financial Police also revealed that part of the money from the scams was reinvested in the man’s business activities, constituting the crime of money laundering.
The Prosecutor’s Office emphasizes the importance of exercising caution in negotiations, especially when they appear unreasonably advantageous. The case will be further investigated in the coming months, examining any justifications that may be provided.
Italian Version
