Lavtolas defense moves rejected

JUDGES in Naples, Italy rejected all the formal exceptions submitted by defense attorneys for Valter Lavítola, facing extortion charges involving contracts between the company Impregilo and the government of Panama.

The attorneys had filed claims for a change in venue and to have the charges dismissed because the indictment was not specific enough.

But the judges ruled that the Naples court does have jurisdiction and that the evidence submitted by prosecutors contained sufficient details to allow the case to move forward.
The judge also called for an immediate trial, a measure that is taken when the evidence is considered to be overwhelming reports La Prensa.
Lavítola was accompanied to court by two pólice officers. He is also facing corruption charges.