Olbia and Genoa are the epicenters of two news stories that immediately sparked controversy over the use of tasers in public safety operations. In the space of two days, last Saturday and Sunday, two people died after receiving a shock from a stun gun used by law enforcement. In Olbia, the victim was Gianpaolo Demartis, 57, originally from Bultei, who died of cardiac arrest in the ambulance on his way to the hospital.
The Carabinieri were responsible for both incidents, and are now under investigation by the Tempio Pausania and Genoa Public Prosecutor's Offices for manslaughter. This was necessary to allow the four officers—two stationed in Olbia, the patrol leader, and the person who actually used the taser, and the others in the Ligurian capital—to participate in the technical investigations with their consultants.
Today, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi defended law enforcement: "Those who ideologically criticize the use of the Taser must remember that it is an essential tool, provided to officers precisely to prevent the use of firearms. The rules of engagement stipulate that it be used only when confronted with violent and aggressive individuals who pose a concrete danger to those present." " The safety of citizens is the primary objective, " he added. "And initial reports indicate that this is precisely the situation the Carabinieri who intervened (in Olbia and Genoa, ed.) found themselves in. Therefore, the criticisms against the police force, which deserves our government's full gratitude and support, must be rejected as entirely specious, prejudicial, and unfounded."
Altra vittima dopo il taser: morto 42enne a Genova
Yesterday, Carabinieri Commander General Salvatore Luongo addressed the matter in a letter to all members of the force, published by the USMIA union: "My unconditional support goes to the colleagues involved in the recent events in Olbia and Genoa. These incidents remind us of the complex and delicate mission you carry out every day with professionalism and sacrifice." In the letter, he emphasized that while Italians are on vacation, "we continue, tirelessly, to ensure safety and proximity to citizens, in cities and towns, on the roads, along the coast, and in tourist destinations ." "The silent and constant commitment of the Carabinieri," Luongo continued, "is the highest testimony of dedication to duty. We are present when others are resting, vigilant when others are distracted, close when others are far away." For the general commander, "working for the safety of the community often means facing situations that threaten public safety, where every decision must be made in a matter of moments, with a significant emotional burden and an awareness of the responsibilities that our role entails."
(Unioneonline)