Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni publicly defended a homeowner who shot an intruder during an attempted robbery in Rovigo, Italy, declaring that the right to self-defense is “always legitimate.” The incident took place Monday when a masked criminal broke into the home and allegedly attempted to attack the resident with a screwdriver.
According to Italian financial daily Il Sole 24 ORE, the homeowner used a legally registered firearm to protect himself, aiming at non-lethal areas of the assailant’s body. The suspect, who was wearing a balaclava, reportedly ignored loud warnings and continued advancing even after the alarm system had been triggered and the homeowner had announced he was armed.
Prosecutor Manuela Fasolato confirmed that the homeowner is not under investigation for any crime related to excessive self-defense. Instead, authorities are pursuing charges of attempted aggravated robbery against the wounded intruder, who remains at large and is also wanted for additional offenses.
Fasolato emphasized that the homeowner acted within the bounds of the law. She stated that the man discharged his weapon only after it became clear that the intruder was intent on violence. Her remarks affirm the Italian legal standard that allows the use of proportionate force when defending oneself or one’s property.
This is not the first time the victim’s home has been targeted by criminals. Reports indicate this marks the second burglary attempt on the same property, adding weight to concerns over rising home invasions and the need for personal protection.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini reinforced Meloni’s position, calling the right to self-defense fundamental. He pointed to recent legislative changes aimed at protecting law-abiding citizens and empowering them to respond effectively to violent threats. Salvini stated, “As we have maintained for years, self-defense is always legitimate.”
