Torino denies central squares for Prison Police anniversary

The city of Torino has denied requests to host the national celebration for the 210th anniversary of the Polizia Penitenziaria (Prison Police) in its main squares. The request, made by the Head of the Department of Prison Administration, Stefano De Michele, during a meeting with Mayor Stefano Lo Russo, sought the use of central locations such as Piazza Castello and Piazza Carignano.

The municipal administration cited a pre-existing calendar of events as the reason for the refusal, stating that current programming does not allow for the celebration under the requested terms. The city has offered to host the event in 2028 instead to allow for better organization.

The decision has sparked significant controversy. The Osapp union described the refusal as ‘a slap to the Prison Police’ and an ‘unacceptable decision,’ arguing that the city missed an opportunity to publicly recognize the role of the corps in maintaining prison security. Political figures, including representatives from Fratelli d'Italia, have also criticized the move.