Cerreto Sannita – A dense series of "I don't remember," sudden gaps, and statements destined to weigh on the defendants' legal future. The trial involving four social workers (three OSS and the facility manager) from the "Epa" cooperative, accused of various counts of aggravated mistreatment of the elderly residents of the nursing home, began in earnest before the panel presided over by Dr. Gelsomina Palmieri.
The genesis of the investigation: from the call to 112 to the complaint
The events at the center of the trial date back to January 2024. The alarm was raised, prompting the investigation conducted by the Guardia di Finanza military together with the NAS of Salerno, by a young local trainee, RF.
The student, after having collected the alleged cries for help from some residents, decided first to make an anonymous call to 112 and, subsequently, to file a formal complaint with the Guardia di Finanza.
This move led to a precautionary detention order in August 2024: for three of the suspects, the ban on residence in Cerreto Sannita was later converted by the Court of Review into a one-year ban from practicing as an OSS. The fourth suspect, AM, chose not to appeal to the Court of Review, subsequently obtaining the non-custodial measure revoked.
After the referral to trial ordered by the preliminary hearing judge Camerlengo in February 2025, the trial formally began last May before a profoundly renewed panel of judges.
Key Witness Examination: Shadows and Revelations in the Courtroom
After three legitimate impediments that had delayed her appearance, the court finally accepted the testimony of the young intern, heard as a key witness after the hearing of six other witnesses.
The testimony, however, was fraught with uncertainty. Amid numerous "I can't remember" statements and incomplete admissions, the witness confirmed the existence of a tense atmosphere within the facility, pointing the finger specifically at the manager and another worker.
The crucial moment of the hearing occurred when the young woman reiterated twice that it was the finance police themselves who urged and "pushed" her to draft the formal complaint immediately after the first telephone report.
The position of the defendants and the defense framework
Prompted by specific questions from the prosecutor and the civil plaintiff's lawyers, the witness nevertheless exonerated one of the defendants. Referring to AM, she stated that she had never seen him engage in violent behavior, describing him, on the contrary, as a "playful person" dedicated to carrying out his work diligently, while confirming the general discomfort experienced by both staff and guests.
The proceedings now continue with the preliminary investigation phase. The civil parties are represented by attorneys Itri and Mastroianni, while the defense team is composed of attorneys Massimo Viscusi, Antonio Barbieri, Cosimo Ciotta, and Emiliano Vaccarella.
Frequently asked questions about the Cerreto Sannita trial
Here are some common questions regarding the elder abuse trial in Cerreto Sannita.
What are the charges against healthcare workers?
They are accused of aggravated mistreatment of the elderly residents of the protected residence.
Who started the investigation?
The investigation was launched thanks to a young intern who reported the alleged abuse.
What is the position of the defendant AM?
AM was cleared by the witness and described as a diligent worker.
What is the current status of the process?
The trial is currently in the preliminary investigation phase, with witnesses and evidence being examined.
