Juvenile prosecutors in Turin have opened an investigation into three minors accused of kidnapping and torturing a teen with a learning disability on Halloween night.
The victim, from Moncalieri near Turin, was reportedly held captive, beaten and humiliated. The alleged perpetrators are two boys and a girl aged 14, 15 and 16. According to a complaint filed by the 15-year-old boy’s mother, he was locked in a room for several hours and subjected to degrading abuse.
The attackers allegedly stubbed a cigarette out on his ankle, tore out tufts of his hair and shaved off his eyebrows. They also forced him to jump into a nearby river. The victim, who has a recognised learning disability, is said to have been targeted because of his vulnerability.
Police sources said the three suspects were already known to authorities for acts of vandalism. The Carabinieri are now examining their mobile phones for videos or photographs of the assault.
The case has shocked the local community, prompting concern about growing youth violence and bullying. The juvenile prosecutor’s office in Turin is coordinating the investigation. Social services are expected to provide support to the victim and his family.
The boy’s mother described the incident as “inhuman”. She told police her son returned home bruised, traumatised and unable to understand why his peers had turned on him.
Authorities have not released the identities of those involved because of their ages. The investigation into the torturing of the teen remains ongoing.
