René Benko trades legal files for carpentry in Austrian pretrial detention
René Benko, the founder of the collapsed Signa Group, has spent over a year in pretrial detention in Austria. Now, authorities have approved his request to work as a carpenter while awaiting further legal proceedings. The move marks a shift from his previous focus on reviewing case files against him.
Benko led the Signa Group from around 2006 until its dramatic collapse in 2023. Over 17 years, his business activities culminated in the largest corporate bankruptcy in Austrian history. The fallout triggered insolvencies, including that of the Laura Privatstiftung, and sent shockwaves through the real estate sector. Companies like Galeria faced store closures and leadership turmoil across Austria and Europe.
His detention, extended until at least April, has now entered its second year. Norbet Wess, Benko's lawyer, recently stated that no new evidence or significant developments have emerged in the case. Until now, Benko had spent most of his time studying the legal documents against him.
Authorities at the Innsbruck Penitentiary and the public prosecutor's office have granted permission for Benko to take up carpentry. He applied for a work permit and has expressed interest in training or practising the trade while in custody.
Benko's transition to carpentry comes as his legal situation remains unresolved. The approval allows him to engage in manual work for the first time since his imprisonment. His case continues to unfold, with no major updates expected in the near future.
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