Italy's New Security Decree Targets Violent Youth Protesters

Italy's government has passed a new security decree in response to weekend riots in Milan, introducing tougher measures targeting violent minors, including preventive detention and parental liability for damages. The decree took effect immediately after Tuesday's cabinet meeting. The new law creates the offense of "organized violence at public events," with prison sentences of 2-5 years and fines up to 20,000 euros for group violence involving five or more people. Organizers face 5-12 years, and parents of minors under 14 could be fined 500-1,000 euros. Preventive custody for up to 12 hours will now apply to minors, and 500 additional soldiers will be deployed to Milan. The crackdown follows riots where 220 of 271 arrested on Sunday were minors, many aged 11-12 from Milan's disadvantaged suburbs. President Sergio Mattarella vetoed a proposal to grant soldiers police powers, including arrest authority.