Andrea Sempio, recently thrust back into the spotlight regarding the murder of Chiara Poggi, continues to assert his innocence amidst ongoing legal and media scrutiny. On the morning of August 13, 2007, 26-year-old Chiara was murdered in Garlasco, a case that has haunted the Italian community for years. Alberto Stasi, Chiara's then-boyfriend, was convicted in 2010 and sentenced to 16 years for her so-called "unprovoked murder." Now, Sempio finds himself under investigation for conspiracy to commit murder, a development he describes as both overwhelming and unjust.
Sempio, in an interview on the Rai 1 program Storie italiane, expressed his frustration, stating, "Enough, now enough." This statement, laden with desperation, highlights the emotional toll the re-opening of this case has taken on him and those around him. Previously investigated between 2016 and 2017, Sempio thought he had put these accusations behind him, but news of the renewed investigation forced him to confront the torment once more. “This situation plays out on two fronts: the legal, which is manageable, and the media, which is imposing a heavy weight not only on my shoulders but also on family and friends. It’s a disaster that crushes everyone,” he added.
The stress of the investigation has led to personal repercussions for Sempio, affecting his ability to work as he juggles the burden of public perception and personal turmoil. He felt compelled to return to work after taking time off, fearing that absence would suggest guilt. "If you stay home, people say you’re hiding. You have to live normally, even when you’re not feeling normal. And nobody can understand how it feels,” he remarked.
Sempio maintains an alibi for the day of the murder, stating he was in Vigevano—a claim backed by a parking receipt he provided when asked. “On that morning, I was in Vigevano,” he insisted. During the interview, he also clarified that he wore either "boots or sneakers from the market," denying any connection with specific shoes implicated in the crime scene. He remarked, “I had never even known about the Frau brand until this whole affair came to light.” This comment reflects his continued frustration regarding the flawed association being made between him and the murder.
Regarding the phone calls he made to Chiara’s home, Sempio explained that his first call was a mistake; he intended to reach out to Marco, Chiara's brother. “I called and hung up as soon as I realized I had dialed the wrong number. The second time, I called back to ask when Marco would be returning,” he recalled. His minimal contact with Chiara, whom he claims he met fewer than ten times, further supports his defense, distancing himself from any culpability in her tragic death.
Despite the police claims pointing to DNA evidence collected at Chiara’s home, Sempio argued that his DNA might naturally be present due to his frequent visits, as he often used some of the same objects in Chiara’s room because of their friendship. “I wouldn’t be surprised to find my DNA there, but if it were a result of an aggression, you wouldn’t just find a minimal trace—you should find a substantial amount,” he explained, attempting to dismantle the prosecution's narrative surrounding DNA evidence.
The emotional burden of the investigation hasn't gone unnoticed by Marco Poggi, who has been a source of support for Sempio throughout this ordeal. “We’ve stayed in contact since this all began. Every little bit counts—the encouragement helps a lot as we deal with all this,” Sempio noted, expressing gratitude for Marco’s presence during such a turbulent time.
This case remains a tense reminder of unresolved issues for the community and the families involved. With accusations clouding his name anew, Sempio hopes for clarity and support as he continues to fight to prove his innocence and regain his life from under the weight of years of suspicion.
