Security: preventive detention and a new offence – here are all the measures

Among other changes, the scope of pre-trial detention has been extended to include “those who disrupt public order in places characterised by a large influx of people”: a measure that will also apply to minors, but only if they have reached the age of 16. Provision is also made for the extension of deferred arrest in cases of offences committed in the act. Furthermore, the presumption that minors over the age of fourteen possess the capacity to understand and form their own will – taken from a previous draft bill – is incorporated, thereby making them immediately liable to prosecution without this being subject to an assessment of their capacity to understand and form their own will at the time of the offence.

In addition, fines of between 500 and 1,000 euros – which may be doubled in the event of a repeat offence – are to be imposed on the parents of minors – even those not criminally liable – who commit acts of violence during demonstrations.

Among the measures is the power of the Chief of Police to impose a ban on minors gathering when five or more people, including in groups, in a public place or a place open to the public, engage in intimidating behaviour. This is a preventative measure which may also apply, during specific pre-determined time slots, to individuals who, within the previous five years, have committed – or are caught in the act of committing – certain acts causing harm to persons or property, or who, within the previous five years, have already been the perpetrators of offences for which they have been subject to preventative measures.

Finally, Article 8 provides for the immediate deployment of 500 military personnel to Milan until 31 December, at a cost of 4.7 million euros. “The contingent will be made available to the public security authorities to assist with the duties to be carried out in the city to maintain control of the area and ensure public safety,” explained Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, adding that at the Provincial Committee for Order and Security meeting he will chair tomorrow in Milan “there will be an action plan”.

“It is within that context that we will see how these resources are utilised and assess whether they can be given any innovative functions compared to their traditional use, such as greater dynamism,” he announced.