Italian Senate Approves Home Detention Scheme for Drug‑Dependent Inmates

The Italian Senate gave the final go‑ahead to a bill that expands home detention for prisoners identified as drug‑ or alcohol‑dependent. Senator Ernesto Rapani said the measure aims to cut prison overcrowding and support therapeutic and rehabilitative pathways without cancelling the underlying sentence.

According to Rapani, roughly one‑quarter to one‑third of Italy’s incarcerated population struggles with substance‑use problems, a factor that contributes to recidivism. The new provisions will allow eligible detainees to serve part of their time under controlled conditions in dedicated facilities, providing structured treatment while maintaining public safety.

The legislation is presented as part of a broader government strategy that includes increasing prison staff, appointing new directors, and other actions to address chronic overcrowding in the penitentiary system.