BOLZANO. A 35-year-old woman was arrested yesterday evening (15 November) by the police in Bolzano for having attacked her ex-partner, whom she was forbidden to approach.
A patrol passing through Largo Kolping noticed a violent argument between a man and a woman: the latter, after having forcefully held the man, attempted to snatch the mobile phone from his hands.
The officers managed to stop the two with great difficulty given the woman’s seriously altered and agitated state.
After taking the two to the police station, what had happened shortly before was reconstructed: the man – who for some time had interrupted his romantic relationship with the woman, already the recipient of the Approach and Contact Ban against him issued by the Court of Bolzano for previous acts of violence – he had accidentally met his ex-partner in a club near Piazza Erbe. Regardless of the precautionary measure against her, the woman first threatened to hit him with a tray and then demanded to have the man’s phone handed over to her. When they refused, he started chasing him throughout the centre, until he reached Largo Kolping, and then attacked him until the police arrived.
The 35-year-old was arrested. Considering the precedents, the commissioner has started
the procedural process for the application of special Public Security surveillance to him.
“The singularity of this episode, in which the role of victim is played by a man – observes the police commissioner Paolo Sartori – further strengthens the idea of how the critical situations that afflict our society must necessarily be addressed by networking between institutions, Local authorities, anti-violence centers and voluntary associations. The State Police has always been at the forefront, even with specific projects, in indicating paths of awareness and awareness of the negative value of what has been committed, with the aim of helping victims to defend themselves, to ask for help and to report the violence suffered”.
How can communities effectively support both victims and perpetrators of domestic violence?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Domestic Violence Expert Dr. Elena Rossi
Editor: Good morning, Dr. Rossi, and thank you for joining us today. We’ve recently reported on a troubling incident in Bolzano where a woman was arrested for attacking her ex-partner, despite having a restraining order against her. What does this kind of situation reveal about the complexities of domestic violence?
Dr. Rossi: Good morning, and thank you for having me. This incident underscores a significant issue in domestic violence cases—often, the dynamics of power and control do not simply evaporate after a relationship ends. In many cases, individuals may struggle to accept that the relationship is over, leading to aggressive behaviors, as we saw in this case.
Editor: Indeed. The woman involved had a court-issued Approach and Contact Ban against her ex. How effective do you think these legal protections are in preventing such violence?
Dr. Rossi: Restraining orders serve an essential purpose—they are a formal recognition of the risk. However, their effectiveness largely depends on the willingness of the parties to comply and the effectiveness of enforcement by law enforcement agencies. In many instances, the individuals violating these orders may feel emboldened by a range of factors, including emotional turbulence or a perceived sense of entitlement.
Editor: You mentioned emotional turbulence. In this situation, the woman attacked her ex-partner despite being forbidden to approach him. What psychological factors often drive someone to violate restraining orders?
Dr. Rossi: A sense of loss and betrayal can lead to a range of intense emotions, including anger, jealousy, and obsession. For some individuals, the thought of their ex moving on can trigger violent impulses. Additionally, if they feel wronged or believe that they must reclaim control over their circumstances, they may disregard the law in favor of their emotional needs.
Editor: The article highlighted that a police patrol had to intervene due to the escalating violence. How important is immediate law enforcement response in situations like this?
Dr. Rossi: Immediate police response is crucial. It can not only prevent further harm but also send a strong message about zero tolerance for violence. In these volatile situations, it’s vital for law enforcement to de-escalate the conflict and provide victims with support. However, it also raises the question of how to provide continuous support and resources to those involved, so crises can be managed before escalating.
Editor: Support and resources are indeed critical. What can communities do to better address the root causes of domestic violence and support both victims and perpetrators?
Dr. Rossi: Education and awareness programs are key. Communities need to foster environments where discussions about healthy relationships, emotional management, and conflict resolution are prioritized. Furthermore, access to counseling services, hotlines, and shelters is essential for victims, while rehabilitation programs play a crucial role for perpetrators. It’s a dual approach that can lead to long-term change.
Editor: That’s enlightening, Dr. Rossi. As we see more reports on domestic violence, what message do you want to leave with our readers regarding this issue?
Dr. Rossi: I want to emphasize that domestic violence is a systemic issue—it requires community awareness and action. Victims must feel empowered to speak out and seek help without shame or fear. Simultaneously, we must hold offenders accountable and provide pathways for change. It is only through joint effort that we can hope to break the cycles of violence and promote healing in our communities.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your insights on this critical topic. Your expertise is invaluable as we continue to shed light on the complexities surrounding domestic violence.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me, and for covering these important issues.