Verona local police face critical staffing shortage

The Verona Local Police is facing a significant staffing deficit, with only 201 officers available for external services despite an estimated requirement of approximately 400 to ensure urban security. While the total force consists of 265 units, roughly 90 officers are assigned to internal office duties, leaving the city's streets under-resourced.

Verona Mayor Damiano Tommasi and Police Commander Luigi Altamura have highlighted that the city's needs are increasing due to a population of over 250,000, constant tourism, large-scale events, and ongoing construction projects. The shortage has prompted calls for extraordinary hiring measures and better institutional support.

The issue is being raised at the regional level in Veneto, where officials noted that similar personnel shortages affect various municipalities. Proposed solutions include the establishment of a regional training school and the use of subsidized housing to help retain staff. There is also ongoing debate regarding the 'institutional short circuit' between the State and local municipalities, as local authorities are tasked with increasing public order responsibilities without receiving proportional resources from the central government.