Chicco Testa, the former president of Roma Metropolitane, has been declared innocent after enduring over ten years of legal turmoil related to the construction of Rome’s Metro C. This verdict, rendered by the Court of Accounts, marks the end of what Testa has described as a nightmare unfairly cast upon him, where the machinery of justice seemed relentless and unsparing.
The saga began with allegations tied to financial transactions made between Roma Metropolitane and the consortium awarded the construction contract for Metro C. These accusations suggested illegal behavior, prompting the lengthy investigation and subsequent trial. Despite the seriousness of the charges, the court found merit lacking, leading to Testa’s complete acquittal.
“This process has taken away my sleep, and when it happens, you are alone; no one shows the slightest solidarity,” Testa said, reflecting on the isolation felt during the drawn-out ordeal, according to Il Giornale. His words echoed the sentiments of countless public servants who find themselves ensnared by the legal system, often without the moral support needed to endure such trials.
The ruling also brings to focus the larger scandal involving twenty-five public officials, including notable figures like Gianni Alemanno. Earlier this year, twenty of those faced charges related to the financial management of the Metro C project, of which only four were found liable for damages to the state, costing the public nearly 115 million euros.
Testa’s case involved specific accusations concerning transactions approved in 2014, but the ex-executive clarified his separation from the company years prior – he left Roma Metropolitane back in 2019. “This process was the result of evidence from various commissions, yet I was standing accused for something I didn’t oversee,” he explained, emphasizing the legitimacy of the dealings he managed well before leaving the firm.
According to Testa, following the outcome of the trial, it was clear the prosecution led by Procuratore Crea was not successful. “For those who promoted the judgment, it was a complete failure,” Testa noted. With the Court accepting only 2% of the originally claimed damages amounting to 160 million euros, strongly indicating the unfounded nature of the accusations made against him and others.
After his acquittal, Testa voiced concern for the remaining defendants who face numerous financial claims, stating, “The end of a nightmare for me, unfortunately not for others, with millionaire claims against dozens of defendants.” His empathy reflects the harsh reality facing many who did not receive the same result.
Throughout this time, Testa indicates he has observed the detrimental impact of such prolonged legal battles, which can render lives unrecognizable. “I wouldn’t accept the position if I could go back — this process has been devastating,” he asserted, prompting reflections on the precariousness of public service roles where personal integrity can be swiftly put under the microscope.
He also criticized the judicial system for the immense discretionary power it wielded, which led to interpretations of the law rather than concrete evidence determining outcomes. “These processes do not rely on the pursuit of indisputable proof; they depend on interpretations of contradictory legal provisions,” he stated.
Looking back on the past decade, Testa’s experience has stirred conversations around legal reform, calling out for serious contemplation on how similar cases might be handled moving forward, especially emphasizing those processes involving government officials. With lessons learned, he hopes for systemic changes to safeguard individuals who serve the public sector.
Acquitted, yet shadowed by the aftermath of his ordeal, Chicco Testa emerges more resolute than ever, pronounced free by the law but aware of the scars left by the experience. His story is one of vindication and caution, illustrating the fragile balance public servants must maintain as they navigate the treacherous waters of accountability and justice.