Tourist Reporting Group Rape in Italian Coastal Town
A vacationing woman has reported a group rape incident in Mancaversa, Italy, prompting an investigation into four young suspects. Authorities are also examining if the incident was recorded, which could escalate the charges to include the distribution of pornographic content.
Details of the Assault
The alleged assault occurred overnight between Wednesday and Thursday in Mancaversa, near Lecce. The victim, a tourist from Rimini, was vacationing with three friends. Following the incident, the woman reported the event to the Carabinieri station in Taviano.
The Carabinieri are investigating four young people, all between 22 and 23 years of age, in connection with the assault. One individual’s role is under scrutiny, as it is believed they did not actively participate but also did not intervene.
“The nightmare began,”
— Source
The investigation is also examining mobile phones for evidence, including the possibility of a video recording. If such a recording exists and was shared, it would lead to additional charges of disseminating pornographic materials. According to recent data, the number of reported sexual assaults in Italy has increased by 12% in the last year. (ISTAT, 2024)
Events Leading Up to the Incident
The four suspects, who had rented a house in Mancaversa, are alleged to have met the four young women at a bar in Gallipoli. The young women were then invited back to their rented residence. According to the victim’s account, the assault began after one of the young women went outside with one of the suspects.
It was already dark when the other two suspects allegedly approached the couple. According to the account, the three men then assaulted the young woman. The victim was later taken to the hospital by her friends.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The young woman, still in shock, was examined by doctors who confirmed the abuse. She then filed a report with the authorities. The Carabinieri questioned the young people and brought them in for interrogation, which lasted until late the previous night. All of the suspects are under investigation for group rape. The suspects’ defense is that the woman gave consent.
