A total support of approximately 5.7 million euros was requested for the projects. Of these, 170 were funded, while the EU's damage was estimated to be about 3.5 million euros. According to the EPPO, the chief executive presented inaccurate and erroneous documents on these projects on behalf of companies and family businesses. Support applications were made under the European Rural Development Agriculture Fund, i.e. the rural development fund.
The two persons involved in the trial and the trial may face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison if found guilty. Additionally, 30 people have admitted to their violations and requested a plea-based agreement; legal proceedings for these individuals are reportedly ongoing. Dozens of people are also being investigated on suspicion that fraudulent applications were made with their consent and that 10 to 15 per cent of project funding was offered in return. The EPPO has recalled that all those involved are considered innocent until proven guilty in the competent Romanian court.
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