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Domestic Abuse: Commentary on the Judgment of the Court of Cassation, Criminal Section VI, No. 21111/2023

The judgment No. 21111 of May 17, 2023, by the Court of Cassation, Criminal Section VI, highlights the complexity of cases of abuse, particularly those involving minors. The defendant A.A., a kindergarten teacher, was convicted for engaging in violent and humiliating behaviors towards children, triggering a heated debate on responsibility and the methods of proof in such contexts.

The Context of the Judgment

The Court of Appeal of Turin had confirmed A.A.'s conviction for abuse, based on video evidence and testimonies. The appeal filed by the teacher was based on five grounds, all rejected by the Court of Cassation, which reiterated the seriousness of the conduct and its habitual nature.

  • Habitually violent and humiliating behaviors
  • Importance of video evidence and the reactions of minors
  • Recognition of responsibility even in the absence of evident manifestations of distress

Analysis of the Grounds for Appeal

The first ground for appeal complained about flaws in reasoning regarding the objective element of the crime, arguing that the judges had solely considered the video recordings. However, the Court clarified that the interpretation of evidence is the responsibility of the trial judges. It is essential that the agent's behavior is capable of causing suffering, even if not directly manifested by the minors.

The crime of abuse is not a crime of event, but of conduct.

The second ground focused on the lack of intent, arguing that A.A. acted in a difficult context. The Court rejected this thesis, emphasizing that the awareness of violence as an educational tool was implicit in the profession.

Conclusions

Judgment No. 21111/2023 offers an important lesson on the responsibility of educators and the protection of minors. It emphasizes that, even in the absence of evident reactions, objectively abusive behaviors are criminally relevant. This principle is crucial for ensuring the protection of the most vulnerable and for questioning educational methods that may lead to violence.