René Benko's Villa Interiors Cost Over 8 Million Euros Amid Legal Troubles

Innsbruck, Austria - René Benko, who recently celebrated his 48th birthday, finds himself in stark contrast to his former opulent lifestyle, as he is currently residing with minimal furnishings in a prison cell. Reports have emerged detailing extravagant expenditures connected to his former villa in Innsbruck, which saw interior decoration costs exceeding 8 million euros.

The Austrian Economic and Corruption Prosecutor's Office (WKStA) in Vienna is investigating allegations that Benko may have concealed assets in his villa, potentially harming creditors in the process. The Kronen Zeitung has cited investigation documents indicating the scale of Benko's lavish spending.

Benko's former residence, known as Villa N, was reportedly outfitted with high-end furnishings, despite officially belonging to a foundation controlled by his mother. Evidence suggests that Benko had significant input in the design choices, including requests for more traditional furniture styles and a garden pergola reminiscent of Capri.

Among the notable expenses were 765,000 euros allocated for furniture from a luxury supplier in Munich, alongside 600,000 euros for a state-of-the-art entertainment system. The villa's wine cellar reportedly cost nearly 400,000 euros, and high-end silver cutlery was budgeted at 300,000 euros.

Though the property is technically owned by a subsidiary of the Laura Private Foundation, Benko appears to have misrepresented his ownership status in communications with suppliers, further complicating his legal situation.

Following his financial collapse, the scrutiny of Benko's lifestyle has intensified. Investigative records suggest he may have artificially diminished his wealth, raising concerns about potential fraud. Benko faces significant legal repercussions, including the possibility of a ten-year prison sentence for alleged fraudulent activities.

Complicating matters, it has been revealed that the costs associated with the villa's interior were billed as a loan to Benko, a claim he disputes following his bankruptcy. The property was inhabited by his family until recently, with his mother reportedly covering the rent. If Benko were indeed the owner, the appointed trustee would have had the authority to liquidate these assets.

As the fallout from Benko's financial troubles unfolds, international attention has also focused on his other ventures, including the sale of the iconic Chrysler Building in New York following his business failures. Furthermore, reports have emerged suggesting his wife has filed for divorce, adding another layer of complexity to his already tumultuous situation.