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Commentary on Judgment No. 15734 of 2023: Stalking and Personal Injuries

The judgment No. 15734 of 2023, issued by the Court of Cassation, provides important clarifications regarding the crime of stalking. In particular, it analyzes the connection between personal injuries and the notion of harassment. This ruling is of fundamental importance in the context of protecting the freedom and psychological well-being of victims of stalking behaviors.

The Legal Context of Stalking

The crime of stalking, as provided by Article 612-bis of the Penal Code, aims to protect individual freedom from invasive and intimidating conduct. The judgment in question clarifies that even voluntary personal injuries can be considered a form of harassment, as they create a hostile and intimidating environment for the victim.

Stalking - Connection of personal injuries to the notion of harassment - Existence - Reasons. The crime of stalking is constituted by the conduct of anyone who causes voluntary personal injuries to the victim, as this represents a way of committing the offense that falls within the notion of harassment, since it constitutes an undue interference or intrusion, immediate or mediated, into the private and relational life of the victim, through the creation of an intimidating and hostile atmosphere suitable for compromising their serenity and psychological freedom.

Practical Implications of the Judgment

The judgment represents a significant step in Italian case law, as it broadens the scope of the crime of stalking. In fact, victims of stalking no longer have to demonstrate a series of constant and repeated behaviors, but can gather evidence even in cases of personal injuries, which by themselves may constitute the offense.

  • The recognition of injuries as harassment strengthens the protection of victims.
  • Previous legal decisions confirm this interpretation, creating an important legal precedent.
  • Victims can now feel more secure in reporting acts of violence, knowing that even single events can be considered stalking.

Conclusions

In conclusion, judgment No. 15734 of 2023 represents a significant development in Italian criminal law, clarifying that personal injuries can be considered acts of stalking. This interpretation not only broadens the notion of harassment but also offers greater protection to victims, facilitating their ability to achieve justice. It is essential to continue monitoring the evolution of case law in this field to ensure increasing protection of individuals' rights.