Italy toughens protest laws with teen detentions and parental fines

Italy's government has approved tougher security measures targeting protest-related violence, including prison terms of up to five years, fines of up to €20,000, and financial liability for parents whose children engage in vandalism or looting. The measures, effective immediately Tuesday, follow weekend unrest in northern Italian cities like Milan, where groups of mainly young people smashed windows, looted shops, and attacked police. Under the new rules, groups of at least five endangering public safety can face up to five years in prison, with increased penalties for concealing faces or injuring others. Police can also detain youths aged 14 to 17 without a crime if deemed dangerous, a power previously limited to adults. The crackdown comes as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni faces protests over rising diesel prices and living costs, including truck driver roadblocks and halted pasta production. Critics argue tougher penalties don't address underlying causes, noting Italy's prison population has risen over 17% in four years. Meloni said hardship must never excuse violence, with national elections due in 2027.