Overview
- Preliminary hearing judge Andrea Romito dismissed the stalking allegation, ruling the fact does not exist, and ordered trial on aggravated defamation and threats.
- The indictment centers on claims that Franchi sent denigratory WhatsApp messages to mutual acquaintances and threatening messages to a former consultant.
- Prosecutors also cite an Instagram post that accused the ex-collaborator of betrayal without naming her, prompting followers’ defamatory comments.
- An October 22 Instagram story featuring a champagne bottle and a raised middle finger is alleged to have reiterated a harmful online campaign against the complainant.
- The criminal trial is scheduled to begin on November 26, 2026, as defense lawyers welcome the stalking acquittal and the civil party’s attorneys say she must answer on the remaining counts.