Influencer Faces Jail Over Charity Cake Scandal

Prosecutors in Milan have requested a 20-month jail sentence for Italian fashion influencer Chiara Ferragni. The charges relate to an alleged aggravated fraud scheme connected to a 2022 collaboration involving branded Pandoro Christmas cakes. The promotion implied that purchases would benefit a Turin hospital, but the donation was significantly less than suggested.

In 2023, Italian authorities fined Ferragni for misleading consumers about the charitable contributions. She initially defended herself, calling the accusations a "communication error" and pledging to donate her fee to the hospital. To resolve ongoing investigations, Ferragni has reportedly paid substantial sums, totaling €3.4 million by late 2024.

Her company has pledged to avoid connecting commercial activities with charitable causes. Despite a period away from social media, Ferragni has since returned. Leaving court recently, she expressed confidence that her innocence would be proven, with further defense arguments and a verdict anticipated in early 2026.