Overview
- Prosecutors had requested a one‑year‑and‑eight‑month sentence, but the Milan tribunal cleared Ferragni of the serious‑fraud charge on January 14, 2026.
- Italian reports note the acquittal followed the court’s view that aggravating elements were absent, and the decision is not yet definitive according to FAZ.
- The case stemmed from 2022 charity‑linked promotions for a ‘Pink Christmas’ Pandoro and Easter eggs that suggested sales would aid sick children.
- Investigations found the Turin hospital received only a pre‑agreed €50,000 donation while more than 360,000 €9 cakes generated over €1 million in profit for Ferragni’s business, leading to an AGCM fine of about €1 million and a €420,000 penalty for Balocco.
- Ferragni apologized for “communication errors,” accepted the regulatory sanctions, and later made seven‑figure charitable payments as reported by multiple outlets, even as lost contracts and follower declines underscored lasting reputational damage.