BARI - In a scandal that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Puglia, Carmela Fiorella, the wife of Democratic councilor Filippo Caracciolo, has found herself at the center of an investigation over allegations of presenting a falsified degree to secure a position at Aeroporti di Puglia (Adp). Fiorella, who was appointed as the head of human resources at Adp with an annual salary of 80,000 euros, is accused of misrepresenting her academic qualifications to participate in the competition for the role.
The controversy erupted following an internal investigation by the University of Bari, which revealed that Fiorella did not possess the degree in Economics and Management as stated in her application. Instead, she holds a degree in Science of Administration, a qualification that does not meet the requirements outlined in the job posting for the Adp position. The discrepancies came to light on April 17, 2025, when the university conducted a verification of Fiorella's credentials and found that her degree lacked essential security features, such as a QR code and an anti-tear adhesive, both of which have been standard on diploma parchments since 2018.
"The investigation revealed that the degree presented by Fiorella was not authentic, as it did not match the records held by the university," stated a representative from the University of Bari. This revelation prompted Adp to file a formal complaint with judicial authorities to protect the company's integrity and reputation. The complaint, signed by Adp's president Antonio Vasile and director general Marco Catamerò, emphasizes the need for accountability in light of the allegations.
In response to the mounting pressure and scrutiny, Fiorella resigned from her position on April 1, just days after her appointment. "I have decided to step down for personal reasons and to protect my family," she stated in her resignation letter. However, the circumstances surrounding her appointment have raised serious questions about the selection process, particularly as the competition was held under questionable conditions. The application window was only 15 days long, with just 10 working days available for candidates to submit their materials.
Following her resignation, Fiorella broke her silence, taking to social media to express her remorse and take responsibility for her actions. "I was blinded by ambition and made a grave mistake in my pursuit of a professional role that I believed would fulfill my career aspirations," she wrote. "I sincerely apologize to the President, the Board of Directors, the Competition Commissioners, all employees of Aeroporti di Puglia, the University of Bari, and my family. Most importantly, I apologize to my husband, who was completely unaware of my actions and is suffering the consequences unjustly. I am ready to face the authorities and accept the repercussions of my actions, but it is only fair that I alone bear the burden of this mistake."
As the investigation continues, the Prosecutor's Office of Bari has opened a case regarding the alleged misrepresentation of Fiorella's academic credentials. Currently, there are no suspects or specific charges, but the inquiry aims to uncover the truth behind the scandal. It has been suggested that the examining commission for the competition may also face scrutiny, as some members were consultants for the same public company that organized the selection process.
Antonio Vasile, in a statement to the employees of Adp, reassured them of the company's commitment to transparency and integrity. "We have always operated with loyalty and responsibility towards our institutions and the public we serve. I want to thank each of you for your dedication and hard work, especially during challenging times like these. Our honesty is our best response to any insinuations, and we will move forward together, heads held high, focused on the future."
The case has further implications, as Carmela Fiorella's husband, Filippo Caracciolo, is currently facing legal challenges himself, including charges of corruption related to a separate public contract. This connection has intensified the scrutiny surrounding both individuals, raising concerns about transparency and accountability within local governance.
In the wake of this scandal, the regional governor of Puglia, Michele Emiliano, has stated that he is prepared to take action if it is determined that the degree presented by Fiorella was indeed falsified. The University of Bari has initiated its own internal review of the situation to ascertain the authenticity of the degree and the circumstances under which it was obtained.
As the investigation unfolds, the implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved, potentially affecting public trust in local political institutions and the hiring practices within public sector organizations. The community is left to ponder the integrity of its leaders and the systems in place to ensure accountability and transparency.
With the situation still developing, many are watching closely to see how the legal proceedings will unfold and what further revelations may come to light regarding the hiring practices at Aeroporti di Puglia and the qualifications of those in positions of authority.
