The trial of Rodrigo Rato for tax crimes, money laundering, and corruption in business has reached its conclusion with the final report being issued. The Public Ministry is maintaining its initial request of 63 years in prison for Rato.
The prosecutor emphasized Rato’s controlling character and extraordinary power in his financial affairs, noting his efforts to hinder the investigation with numerous appeals. The prosecutor also pointed out Rato’s attempts to obscure his actions and hide wealth abroad, which only partially surfaced during a tax amnesty in 2012.
Rato was accused of manipulation and opacity in his financial affairs, declaring only partial assets and attempting to avoid paying the full amount owed to the Spanish Public Treasury. The prosecutor cited the Supreme Court ruling on the Grtel case to support the argument that Rato’s tax regularization was insufficient.
The trial has revealed a complex web of financial deceit and manipulation, shedding light on the corrupt practices of high-profile individuals in positions of power.