Italian Woman’s Hospital Death Sparks Debate Over Domestic Violence Sentencing

Milan, Italy – April 15, 2025
A tragic case in Milan has gripped Italy, as a 42-year-old woman, identified only as S.L. to protect her family’s privacy, died in San Raffaele Hospital on April 7, 2025, after reportedly choosing to end her life following years of alleged abuse by her husband, Marco T., 45. Prosecutors are now seeking a five-year sentence for Marco on charges of stalking, aggravated assault, and psychological abuse, with a preliminary hearing set for April 20. The case, detailed in Corriere della Sera and amplified on X, has fueled outrage over Italy’s handling of domestic violence, with advocates arguing the proposed penalty is too lenient for a tragedy that could have been prevented.

The Tragedy Unfolds

S.L.’s story began unraveling last December when she filed a restraining order against Marco, citing relentless harassment after their separation in 2023. Court documents, per La Repubblica, allege he violated the order multiple times, bombarding her with threatening calls—over 200 in one month—and physically assaulting her twice, leaving visible bruises. S.L., a nurse, confided to colleagues about her fear, saying, “He’ll never stop,” according to a coworker’s statement to ANSA. On March 29, after another reported violation, she was admitted to San Raffaele for severe anxiety and depression.

In the hospital, S.L.’s condition worsened. Medical records, cited by Il Fatto Quotidiano, note she refused food and medication, expressing a desire to “let go.” On April 7, she suffered cardiac arrest, and despite resuscitation efforts, she passed away. A note found in her room, per RAI News, read, “I can’t live like this anymore.” While no formal suicide ruling has been confirmed, her family claims the years of abuse drove her to despair, a sentiment echoed on X: “She didn’t just die—she was killed by his violence,” one user posted.

The Legal Battle

Prosecutors charge that Marco’s actions—stalking, physical attacks, and psychological torment—directly contributed to S.L.’s death. The five-year sentence sought, standard for aggravated domestic violence under Italy’s penal code, includes three years for assault and two for stalking, per Sole 24 Ore. But activists are livid, pointing to Italy’s 99 feminicides in 2024, 70% tied to intimate partners, per ISTAT. “Five years for pushing a woman to her grave? It’s a disgrace,” tweeted a Milan-based advocate, reflecting X’s outcry.

Marco’s defense argues he never intended harm, claiming S.L.’s mental health struggles predated their marriage. They’ve requested a psychiatric evaluation, per La Stampa, which could reduce his sentence if deemed non compos mentis. Yet, evidence like text messages—“You’ll regret leaving me”—and a neighbor’s testimony of hearing screams weaken his case, per ANSA.

A Broader Crisis

The case reignites debate over Italy’s domestic violence laws. Justice Minister Carlo Nordio, already under fire for comments on feminicides, faces pressure to back harsher penalties, like the 2024 “Red Code” reforms mandating swift police action, per Il Messaggero. But enforcement lags—only 40% of restraining order violations lead to arrests, per a 2024 Ministry of Justice report. X users vent frustration: “The system failed her. Five years won’t fix this,” one wrote, while another asked, “How many more women before real change?”

S.L.’s death mirrors global trends—1 in 3 women face partner violence, per WHO—but Italy’s low conviction rates (25% for domestic abuse, per EIGE) amplify the problem. Shelters, housing 1,200 women yearly, are stretched thin, per D.i.Re. Her hospital choice, while deeply personal, underscores a grim reality: for some, death feels like the only escape.

What’s Next?

The April 20 hearing will decide if Marco’s case proceeds to trial. S.L.’s family, backed by women’s groups, demands a murder charge, arguing his abuse was tantamount to killing, a rare but possible escalation, per Corriere della Sera. Meanwhile, vigils across Milan honor S.L., with X posts urging donations to shelters like Casa di Accoglienza Donne Maltrattate. For Italy, her story is a painful call to action—whether the courts deliver justice remains to be seen.

By Staff Writer, Gender Justice Journal
Sources: Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica, ANSA, Il Fatto Quotidiano, RAI News, Sole 24 Ore, La Stampa, Il Messaggero, ISTAT, Ministry of Justice, EIGE, D.i.Re, posts on X