Two of the alleged perpetrators of the Ranucci attack remain in prison: the GIP rejects the request of the domiciliaries

Two individuals suspected of being the physical perpetrators of the alleged bombing against journalist Sigfrido Ranucci remain in custody after a judge rejected their request for house arrest. Pellegrino D’Avino and Antonio Passariello were among those arrested in connection with the incident that took place near Ranucci’s residence on October 16, 2025. The two men had sought leniency through a legal motion requesting reduced penalties, including the possibility of serving their sentences under house arrest instead of in prison. However, the judge overseeing the case in Rome denied this request, following a negative assessment from the prosecution. The decision came despite the defendants’ admission of guilt and cooperation during questioning. Both men spent over nine hours responding to questions posed by prosecutor Edoardo De Santis during an interrogation held recently. They claimed they had contact only with Gomes Tavares, a known associate of Lavitola, who is currently in Africa and is under investigation as the alleged mastermind behind the attack on Ranucci. Their statements suggested limited knowledge of the target of the operation, with both asserting they did not even know who Ranucci was or who Lavitola was. Additionally, they described the entire operation as a “movie,” claiming it would cause neither harm nor damage to anyone. D’Avino and Passariello are part of a group of four individuals under investigation for the detonation of a paper bomb near the home of the former host of Report, a popular investigative journalism program. Their continued detention follows a detailed review of their legal arguments, which included claims of diminished culpability and potential mitigating factors. Despite these assertions, the court found them insufficient to justify a reduction in their sentences or alternative forms of confinement. Legal representatives Generoso Pagliarulo and Antonio Falconieri had submitted the motion for house arrest, arguing that their clients’ willingness to cooperate and admit responsibility warranted more lenient treatment. However, prosecutors opposed the request, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges and the need for continued judicial oversight. The judge ultimately sided with the prosecution, maintaining that the circumstances of the case did not support such a measure. During their interrogation, D’Avino and Passariello provided conflicting accounts regarding their level of involvement in the attack. While they admitted to participating in the operation, they downplayed its significance, suggesting it was not intended to cause serious harm. This narrative has raised doubts among investigators and legal experts, who question whether the pair fully understood the implications of their actions. Some have pointed out inconsistencies in their testimony, particularly regarding their familiarity with key figures linked to the plot. The rejection of the house arrest request underscores the judiciary’s emphasis on accountability in cases involving threats against public figures. Prosecutors have consistently maintained that the gravity of the offense requires strict adherence to legal procedures, ensuring that those responsible face appropriate consequences. The ruling also reflects broader concerns about the potential risks associated with releasing individuals accused of violent acts, especially when their true intentions remain unclear. As the legal proceedings continue, further evidence will likely emerge regarding the roles played by all suspects, including Gomes Tavares, whose location in Africa complicates the investigation. The case has drawn attention from media and legal circles alike, highlighting the complexities surrounding attacks on journalists and the challenges faced by authorities in securing convictions. With the trial progressing, additional testimonies and forensic findings could reshape the understanding of the events leading up to the alleged bombing.