Vincenzo De Luca calls for strict repression following Milan unrest

Salerno Mayor Vincenzo De Luca has called for a hardline response to the recent violent unrest in Milan, advocating for immediate repression and the use of police defensive tools. De Luca stated that law enforcement should use their equipment “without concern” to prevent property damage, suggesting that such actions serve a “pedagogical effect” for those committing violence.

Addressing the involvement of minors, De Luca expressed support for lowering the age of criminal responsibility, noting that 15- to 16-year-olds are capable of distinguishing right from wrong. For younger children, such as those aged 11 or 12, he proposed a system of parental accountability where families would be required to pay immediate fines of 10,000 to 20,000 euros if their children are caught in the act of vandalism.

While De Luca acknowledged the complexity of dealing with very young offenders and suggested they should eventually be given a chance to reform, he emphasized that security is a primary good that requires an immediate and firm response to violence.