A thirty-seven-year-old man accused of soliciting explicit media from young girls via Snapchat will stand trial in Perugia, as the preliminary hearing judge rejected a defense request to transfer the proceedings to Venice.
The case centers on allegations that the man contacted minors aged eight to fourteen through the messaging application, according to umbria24.it. Investigators state he manipulated the victims into producing and transmitting intimate photographs and videos.
The investigation began in May 2025 following a report filed by the mother of an eight-year-old victim. Lawyer Luisa Manini stated in civil party filings that the young girl was coerced into sending explicit images through threats involving a fictitious police acquaintance capable of tracking her.
Defense Considers Plea Bargain Options
During the recent procedural session, defense counsel raised the possibility of a plea bargain. Judge Giorgio Margheri confirmed the territorial competence of the Umbrian court after both the defense and the public prosecutor initially favored a transfer to Venice, where the defendant resides. Civil parties strongly opposed the move, insisting the trial remain in Perugia.
The defendant has not yet formalized a final legal strategy. He may pursue the proposed plea agreement or opt for an abbreviated trial format when proceedings resume in April.
Victim Suffers Psychological Trauma During Legal Proceedings
Legal representatives for the civil parties detailed the severe psychological toll the ordeal inflicted on the young victim. The child experienced anxiety-depressive symptoms, nightmares, and persistent fears that necessitated professional psychotherapy.
The next hearing is scheduled for April, at which point the court will determine whether the defense officially moves forward with the plea bargaining process.
