Analysis of the Judgment of the Court of Cassation, Criminal Section II, No. 18184 of 2024: Embezzlement and Money Laundering

The recent ruling of the Court of Cassation, No. 18184 of 2024, has raised important questions regarding the crimes of embezzlement and money laundering, with particular attention to the correct determination of the profit to be confiscated. The defendants, A.A. and B.B., had their convictions for serious crimes upheld, but the Court also clarified some crucial aspects regarding the confiscation of assets derived from illicit activities.

The Case and the Court's Decision

The G.U.P. of the Court of Biella had sentenced A.A. and B.B. to agreed penalties for various crimes, including aggravated embezzlement and money laundering. The contested ruling ordered the confiscation of significant assets, but the appellants challenged the reasoning behind the determination of the profit to be confiscated.

The Court specified that the measure of the profit from the crime of money laundering must exclusively consider the actual financial advantage obtained by the author of the laundering operations.

The Concept of Profit and Proceeds of Crimes

A central aspect of the ruling concerns the distinction between profit and proceeds of crimes. According to the Court, profit must be calculated based on the direct economic advantage derived from the crimes, not on the total value of the laundered assets. This approach aligns with European provisions and international conventions on money laundering, which aim to ensure effective confiscation of illicit proceeds.

  • Profit must represent the economic advantage obtained through the illicit conduct.
  • The confiscation cannot exceed the value of the profit actually realized.
  • The Court reiterated the importance of following the guidelines of European regulations on money laundering.

Conclusions

The ruling No. 18184 of 2024 by the Court of Cassation represents an important step forward in clarifying the regulations regarding the confiscation of assets derived from money laundering and embezzlement crimes. It highlights the need for a careful assessment of profit, thereby ensuring greater protection of the rights of victims and a fairer application of criminal sanctions.