Davide Lacerenza, the former owner of the Gintoneria nightclub in Milan, was hospitalized early on April 1, 2025, due to neurological issues that were initially suspected to be a stroke. However, subsequent examinations revealed that he had experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA), not a full-blown stroke. His lawyer, Liborio Cataliotti, confirmed that Lacerenza remained vigilant and conscious during his hospital stay at the Policlinico in Milan.
Lacerenza, 59, has been under house arrest since March 4, 2025, following a significant investigation into alleged drug dealing and the exploitation of prostitution at his establishments, including Gintoneria and Malmaison. The investigation, led by the Guardia di Finanza, has raised serious concerns about the operations within these venues, which were reportedly involved in a multi-million euro escort and drug ring.
On the night of March 31, while under house arrest, Lacerenza experienced a health scare that led to his hospitalization. Initially feared to be a stroke, the diagnosis later clarified that he had not suffered a stroke but a TIA, which is often referred to as a warning sign for potential future strokes. Giuseppe Cruciani, a journalist who discussed the case on Radio 24’s program "La Zanzara," stated, "Lacerenza did not have a stroke. The MRI ruled that out; it was just a transient ischemic attack. He could be discharged as early as tomorrow afternoon after a heart examination."
Despite the alarming nature of his hospitalization, sources indicate that Lacerenza’s condition is stable and not considered life-threatening. He is expected to undergo further tests to fully understand the neurological issues he faced. His lawyer had previously requested medical leave for Lacerenza, who had started a detoxification program for cocaine addiction but reportedly abandoned it.
In the ongoing investigation, Lacerenza is accused of money laundering, facilitating prostitution, and drug trafficking. His ex-partner, Stefania Nobile, the daughter of notorious figure Wanna Marchi, was also arrested in connection with these allegations. They, along with Davide Ariganello, were interrogated by a judge but chose to invoke their right not to answer during the process.
The legal troubles for Lacerenza and Nobile have deepened, leading to the seizure of their establishments, Gintoneria and La Malmaison. The judge ordered the seizure to prevent the continuation of illicit activities, which reportedly included the exploitation of young escorts and the distribution of drugs. The authorities have estimated that the illicit profits from these operations could total around 900,000 euros, although only about 80,000 euros have been traced so far.
According to reports, a significant amount of this money has been suspected of being funneled abroad, possibly for investments in Albania. The investigation has revealed evidence of drug use at the Gintoneria, particularly in a private room known as the "pink" room, where clients were allegedly encouraged to consume drugs.
In a related development, Maurizio Nobile, Stefania's brother, expressed his distress over the situation, stating, "I feel an endless despair" regarding the arrest of his sister and Lacerenza. He described the challenges of coping with the family's current predicament, acknowledging that he leads a very different lifestyle than that associated with the Gintoneria.
As the investigation unfolds, further details continue to emerge. Fabrizio Corona, a media personality, has claimed that Lacerenza was involved in a blackmail scheme, where clients were encouraged to use drugs and then overcharged. This claim has added another layer of complexity to the ongoing inquiry.
On April 2, following the initial reports of his hospitalization, Lacerenza’s health status was clarified. While there was initial concern about a stroke, the confirmation of a TIA has alleviated some worries. Cruciani noted that Lacerenza might be released soon, pending further medical evaluations.
The legal ramifications of the case are significant, as the authorities have indicated that the operations at Gintoneria and La Malmaison posed a serious threat to public safety and order. The prosecutor’s office has emphasized that reopening these venues could lead to a re-establishment of the same illicit systems that have already caused considerable concern.
As of now, the investigation remains active, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and pursue leads related to the alleged criminal activities tied to Lacerenza and his associates. The case has drawn considerable media attention, not only due to the serious nature of the allegations but also because of Lacerenza’s previous public persona as a flamboyant figure in Milan's nightlife.
With the investigation still unfolding and new developments emerging, the situation surrounding Davide Lacerenza continues to captivate public interest. His health status and the legal challenges he faces will likely remain in the spotlight as the story progresses.
