Rome Drug Cartel Boss ‘Maverick’ Operated from Rebibbia Prison, Investigation Reveals
Rome, May 7, 2026 – A significant drug cartel boss, Giuliano “Maverick” Cappoli, is alleged to have continued running his illicit operations from inside Rome’s Rebibbia prison, using encrypted mobile phones, according to an ongoing investigation by the Carabinieri and the District Anti-Mafia Directorate (DDA). The revelations, based on the testimony of a repentant former cellmate, Fabrizio Capogna, paint a picture of a prison cell transformed into a command center, where Cappoli managed drug acquisitions, distributions, and even dictated punishments for those who crossed him.
Encrypted Phones: The ‘Grand Hotel’ of Rebibbia
Capogna, who shared a cell with Cappoli between 2020 and 2021, disclosed that they used an encrypted phone to communicate with the outside world. This device was allegedly used not only for business transactions but also for sending photos to contacts outside the prison, including other cartel members already incarcerated, such as Manuel Grillà, known as “Neymar,” and Davide Magozzi, or “Billo,” who served as the organization’s drug custodian.
According to investigators, Cappoli maintained constant contact with numerous high-profile inmates, including Leandro Bennato, Giuseppe Molisso, and Massimiliano Rasori, known as “Stipetto.” These communications, facilitated by encrypted phones, involved messages, video calls, and voice calls, effectively allowing Cappoli to maintain his influence and control over the cartel’s activities from behind bars.
From Drug Deals to Inmate Transfers: Cappoli’s Reach
The investigation suggests that Cappoli’s influence extended beyond drug trafficking. He allegedly made decisions regarding punishments for disloyal members and even influenced the relocation of new inmates within the detention facility. Capogna further revealed that through the shared encrypted phone, he learned of the kidnapping of Alfredo Le Donne, linked to a debt owed by his son Massimiliano to the cartel, and the stabbing of an Albanian national in Spain.
Capogna admitted that after his release, he continued to engage with Cappoli, occasionally requesting several kilograms of drugs when his supply ran low. This demonstrates the enduring nature of Cappoli’s control and the trust placed in him by his associates, even from prison.
Warnings and Benefits: Life Inside the ‘Grand Hotel’
Despite his extensive use of prohibited devices, “Maverick” was reportedly aware of the risks. In November 2025, he advised a friend, Davide M., to seek a quiet cell, warning him about the dangers of phones being seized. He also cautioned against speaking openly in the air or during visits, promising a transfer to a better wing of Rebibbia, which subsequently occurred. Davide M.’s grateful response – “Thanks to you, it’s like I’m at the Grand Hotel” – highlights the perceived benefits of Cappoli’s influence within the prison system.
Among those who allegedly benefited from Cappoli’s prison phones was Massimiliano Del Vecchio, known as “Pupone,” currently detained in Spoleto, who is implicated in three episodes of drug purchases within this investigation.
Wider Implications and Ongoing Investigations
This case is part of a broader crackdown on drug trafficking in Rome. Recent arrests have targeted drug traffickers connected to the Senese clan, with two police officers also under investigation. Other related incidents include a drug courier from Belgium caught at Rome Ciampino airport with 100 drug ovules, illegal trafficking managed from cell 147 in Prato prison, and drones used to deliver four kilograms of hashish into the courtyard of Rebibbia prison. These events underscore the pervasive nature of organized crime and the challenges faced by authorities in combating it.
The investigation into Giuliano “Maverick” Cappoli and his cartel continues, with authorities working to dismantle the network and bring all those involved to justice.
Source: Corriere della Sera
