Italy top court clears two Milan prosecutors

Italy’s Court of Cassation on 19 June 2026 acquitted Milan prosecutors Fabio De Pasquale and Sergio Spadaro. In its decision, the court declared that “the offence does not exist,” clearing them of the charges they faced. The ruling reverses an earlier outcome issued in lower‑court proceedings. As Italy’s highest court, the Court of Cassation’s decision closes this particular case against the two magistrates.

The proceedings against De Pasquale and Spadaro stemmed from their conduct in a high‑profile international corruption case. That case is linked to Nigeria’s OPL 245 offshore oil block, associated in reporting with a deal valued at about $1.3 billion. The latest ruling focuses specifically on the criminal accusations brought against the Milan prosecutors in connection with that broader matter.

The OPL 245 case has been the subject of extended litigation involving alleged corruption around rights to the offshore oil license. Italian proceedings have examined various aspects of the transaction and the behaviour of individuals connected to it. The charges against De Pasquale and Spadaro arose within this legal context, making their acquittal a notable development in the wider OPL 245 saga.

By stating that “the offence does not exist,” the Court of Cassation did more than dismiss the charges on procedural grounds. The formula used indicates that the alleged criminal conduct attributed to the prosecutors is not legally recognised as an offence in this case. As a result, the ruling has been presented as definitively clearing them of wrongdoing within the OPL 245‑related proceedings.

Following the verdict, defence lawyer Massimo Di Noia welcomed the court’s decision. He stated: “My colleague Fabio Federico and I are truly happy. This ruling brings justice after many years of suffering.” His comments underline the length and strain of the legal battle for the prosecutors and their defence team.

The acquittal has been described as closing another chapter in Italy’s handling of issues linked to Nigeria’s OPL 245 oil block. While other strands of litigation and investigation may continue separately, the case targeting De Pasquale and Spadaro has now been resolved at the highest judicial level. The decision thus marks a significant moment in the long‑running saga surrounding the $1.3 billion OPL 245 deal.