Seven healthcare workers at a care and rehabilitation centre in Rimini have come under investigation on charges of mistreating a completely disabled patient. The alleged conduct includes insults, threats, slaps, shoving, poor hygiene standards and the prolonged use of physical restraints.
The investigation, led by deputy prosecutor Davide Ercolani, began following a complaint filed by the patient’s family in March 2025. The patient, who had initially been able to carry out some simple daily activities independently, was taken to hospital after falling at the facility. Doctors found fractures to the shoulder, foot and nose, prompting relatives to suspect the injuries might be linked to mistreatment.
Subsequent investigations, which drew on audio and video recordings as well as the testimony of a family member, are said to have documented a pattern of abuse. The patient later died in October 2025: at this stage, however, investigators have not established any link between the death and the alleged mistreatment.
The prosecution requested a personal precautionary measure for the seven suspects, but the preliminary investigations judge, while acknowledging serious evidence of guilt, ruled out the need for precautionary measures given the amount of time that had passed since the events took place. The prosecution has appealed, and a ruling from the Bologna Court of Review (Tribunale del Riesame) is now awaited. The investigation is nearing its conclusion. The seven workers are represented by lawyers Enrica Vasini and Paolo Gasperoni.
