Cruise Ship Captain Who Fled Wreck That Killed 32 Seeks Parole, Eyes Vatican Job
Francesco Schettino, the former captain of the Costa Concordia cruise ship that sank in 2012, may soon be eligible for partial parole and has a job waiting for him at the Vatican.
The Roman court handling his case has scheduled a hearing for April 8 to decide on his request for “semi-freedom.” If granted, he would be allowed to work outside prison during the day before returning to his cell at night.
Schettino, aged 63, has served over half of his 16-year and one-month sentence for the disaster, which resulted in the deaths of 32 people.
Under a rehabilitation program run by the prisoner support group “Seconda Chance,” he could work at Fabbrica di San Pietro, a Vatican institution responsible for preserving St. Peter’s Basilica.
His role would involve digitising historical documents alongside other inmates participating in similar initiatives. On January 13, 2012, the Costa Concordia struck an underwater rock and capsized near Giglio Island, Tuscany.
The accident was one of the most catastrophic maritime disasters in Italy’s history, with 32 fatalities and a wreck removal cost of around $2 billion, making it the most expensive salvage operation ever undertaken.
Schettino had navigated the vessel close to shore in what was described as a “salute” to honour a retired cruise line commodore. However, the maneuver led to the ship running aground and partially sinking.
Allegations also surfaced that he veered off course to impress a female dancer who was on the ship’s bridge, though he was denied this claim.
Following the disaster, Schettino was convicted in 2015 on multiple charges, including manslaughter, causing a shipwreck, and abandoning ship.
However, his legal representatives have argued that the collision itself did not cause the fatalities. Instead, they claim that the failure of a backup generator and flooding of key compartments led to the chaotic evacuation.
Schettino has never admitted full responsibility for the tragedy, blaming miscommunication on the bridge, technical issues, and flaws in the vessel’s design.
The case also gave rise to a new Italian expression, “Fare lo Schettino” (“Do the Schettino”), referring to acts of cowardice. Currently held at Rebibbia Prison in Rome, Schettino has already been involved in digitising legal records for the past five years.
His past work includes handling court files related to the kidnapping and murder of Italian politician Aldo Moro. If granted parole, he would join other prisoners working for the Vatican under a rehabilitation program backed by Pope Francis, who has long advocated for humane prison conditions.
Many believe that he should serve his full sentence. According to local media reports, Giovanni Girolamo, the father of a crew member who died in the sinking, stated that the former captain “must not be released, but given 32 life sentences.”
References: katholisch
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Posts
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Articles
Latest News
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT