Prosecutor Exposes Corruption Scheme: Former IMF Chief Faces 63 Years in Prison for Tax Evasion

Anti-Corruption Prosecutor Elena Lorente presented her final report in court, accusing former IMF managing director Rodrigo Rato of hiding significant assets abroad through instrumental companies for many years. Lorente emphasized Rato’s control over the scheme and his evasion of taxes by managing a network of interrelated companies. The prosecution is seeking 63 years in prison for Rato, framing his actions as deliberate attempts to avoid tax payments.

Throughout the trial, Rato has rejected the allegations as fabrication, leading to tense exchanges with the prosecutor and court. The defense has attempted to challenge the incriminating thesis by presenting evidence of innocence, which the prosecutor has dismissed as traps and illusions. Lorente dismantled Rato’s explanations about the origin of his foreign funds, citing inconsistencies and questioning his motives for participating in the 2012 tax amnesty.

The prosecutor refuted the defense’s arguments and criticized Rato’s attempt to assert control over the judicial proceedings. She highlighted his refusal to answer questions from Anti-Corruption and the State Attorney’s Office as a manipulative tactic. The trial is ongoing, with the prosecutor continuing to present her case before the State Attorney’s Office and defense have their turn. Rato will have the opportunity to make a final statement before the conclusion of the trial.