Harassment of 13-year-old girl in Turin, prosecutor appeals against release.

The prosecutor’s office in Turin has filed an appeal against the judicial order issued by a judge of instruction (GIP) that granted a defendant freedom under the condition of regular check-ins, without formally validating his detention. The 42-year-old man was arrested by police after being accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old girl who had entered his store. The GIP acknowledged serious charges against him but ruled that there was no risk of flight, thus opting for the less restrictive measure of mandatory check-ins instead of formal custody. This decision has sparked political backlash, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressing concern, while Justice Minister Carlo Nordio ordered an inspection into the circumstances surrounding the ruling. The case has drawn sharp public reaction, with anti-pedophilia slogans appearing on the shutters of the supermarket where the alleged crimes took place. A sign reading “Pedofilo infame, in mano al popolo” (meaning “Pedophile scum, in the hands of the people”) was found outside the store, which closed temporarily following administrative and technical checks. These inspections revealed irregularities, including unpaid electricity bills leading to power cuts and the shutdown of refrigerators. The closure appears unrelated to police action, though local authorities have not commented directly on the connection. The legal proceedings have become a focal point of controversy, with calls for stricter measures against sexual predators. Interior Minister Matteo Salvini has publicly endorsed chemical castration as a solution, citing its use in several Western countries. His remarks reflect broader political tensions over how to handle cases involving minors. Meanwhile, the Association of National Magistrates (ANM) has criticized the political attacks as “disproportionate,” emphasizing that the judiciary’s decision can still be challenged through legal channels such as the Court of Review and potentially the Supreme Court. ANM President Giuseppe Tango stressed that the GIP’s ruling does not constitute a final judgment or conviction, urging restraint in public discourse. The incident unfolded on August 28, when the 42-year-old allegedly committed two sexual assaults, one against a woman and another against the 13-year-old, inside his store. Police intervened and detained the suspect, initiating a criminal investigation. The GIP’s subsequent decision to grant conditional release has been met with outrage from both the public and some political figures. While the prosecution has appealed the ruling, the defense maintains that the conditions imposed are sufficient to ensure public safety and prevent further harm. Legal experts have noted that the GIP’s choice to avoid formal detention reflects standard procedures when there is no evidence of flight risk. However, the case highlights ongoing debates about the balance between individual rights and the protection of vulnerable victims. The ANM has reiterated that while the decision can be challenged, it should not be subject to undue political interference. The ministry’s decision to send inspectors to review the case has also raised concerns among legal professionals, who argue that such actions could undermine judicial independence. As the legal process continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim while adhering to procedural norms. The outcome of the appeal will determine whether the 42-year-old faces more severe restrictions or is allowed to remain free under supervision. In the meantime, the community around the store continues to monitor developments, with some residents calling for stronger oversight of businesses operating in sensitive areas. The case underscores the complex interplay between law enforcement, judicial discretion, and public sentiment in handling allegations of sexual misconduct.