The Vatican court sentenced all three defendants in a trial concerning embezzlement, money laundering and fraud relating to the former management of the Sistine Chapel Choir to several years in prison, the Vatican announced on Tuesday.

Among the accused was Massimo Palombella, the former musical director of the world-famous choir.

Mr Palombella received a prison sentence of three years and two months. The court also imposed a fine of €9,000 ($9,474).

The former administrative director, Michelangelo Nardella, was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison.

According to the judgment, his wife must serve a two-year prison sentence.

Her lawyer announced plans to appeal the verdict.

The trial revolved around allegations that Messr Palombella and Nardella had allegedly pocketed proceeds from the choir’s concerts.

The case also involved irregular cash flows and mismanagement.

The investigations began in 2018 following complaints about the choir’s financial management, leading Pope Francis to initiate an inquiry.

The Sistine Chapel Choir was founded in 1471 and claims to be the oldest active choir in the world.

Alongside adult singers, boys aged nine to 13 also sing in the choir. They perform at Papal Masses in St Peter’s Basilica.

(dpa/NAN)