Bologna, May 28, 2026 The Ivrea Public Prosecutor's Office has opened an investigation into alleged sexual abuse committed by prison officers against a transgender inmate inside the prison. According to the charges, an inspector allegedly obtained sexual favors in exchange for basic necessities—makeup, creams, and cosmetics—exploiting his position and the inmates' total dependence. The investigation also involves the former commander of the operations unit, accused of failing to promptly report the incident to the judicial authorities. "What emerged from the investigation by the Ivrea Public Prosecutor's Office," commented Daniela Lourdes Falanga, prison delegate in the national secretariat of Arcigay, "cannot be dismissed as an 'isolated case' without a deeper reflection on the prison system and the vulnerable conditions of LGBTQIA+ inmates. The contested charges, if confirmed, paint a very serious picture: sexual relations forced through blackmail, power, and control, in exchange for essential goods and small tools of daily dignity. It is important to reiterate that when a person is deprived of their liberty, consent cannot be separated from the power relationship that governs every aspect of their life. Talking about 'exchange' in such a context is misleading: what emerges is a system of institutional abuse and oppression. Trans people in prison too often experience conditions of extreme marginalization, isolation, fear of reporting, and total dependence on the facilities that should guarantee their protection and safety. This latest case demonstrates the urgency of intervention. For this reason, we demand full truthfulness on the facts and immediate protection for the prisoners." people involved, as well as transparency in investigations and disciplinary proceedings. We also demand real reporting and protection tools for LGBTQIA+ prisoners, accessible and protected, and a serious and structured discussion on the conditions of trans people in Italian prisons, involving associations and advocacy organizations. Human rights cannot be suspended behind bars,“ Falanga concludes, “and dignity cannot become a bargaining chip.”.
