The Growing Problem of Pickpocketing in Venice
As the summer season approaches, Venice welcomes a surge of tourists eager to explore its iconic landmarks and historic canals. However, with this influx comes an increase in criminal activity, particularly pickpocketing. These crimes are often carried out by gangs that exploit legal loopholes, using children as young as 12 or 13 to commit thefts. Because these minors are under the age of 14, they are not subject to criminal prosecution, making it difficult for authorities to hold them accountable.
Exploiting Legal Loopholes
Criminal organizations have shifted their focus from using pregnant women—individuals who can be prosecuted—to younger individuals who are less likely to face legal consequences. This strategy has proven effective, allowing these gangs to operate with relative impunity. According to Marco Agosti, commander of the Venice local police, even when these children are caught and taken to a community center, they often escape within hours.
Local activists have become increasingly frustrated with the situation. They frequently spot these pickpockets following tourists through the city’s narrow streets and canals. In response, some activists post images of the thieves on social media, along with their names or nicknames such as “Shakira,” “Mika,” or “Dodu.” This public shaming is an attempt to deter further criminal activity.
A Personal Experience
One victim, a 50-year-old British tourist, described her experience during the city’s annual Carnevale festivities in February. She said she did not feel a thing as the thief took her wallet. It was only when she arrived at the railway station that she realized what had happened.
Increased Police Activity
Despite the challenges, local and national Carabinieri police have made efforts to combat the issue. Since the start of the year, they have apprehended more than 150 alleged thieves. Police have also collected over 15 large bags filled with stolen items and empty wallets at the town hall. However, the problem persists due to the transient nature of these crimes and the difficulty in securing convictions.
Legal Challenges
Venice is equipped with over 800 police cameras to monitor the city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite this, police face significant obstacles in prosecuting pickpockets. Gianni Frazoi, deputy commander of Venice police, explained that pickpocketing cases require a complaint from the victim. If the victim does not attend the trial, the case is dismissed. Most victims are foreigners who rarely return for court hearings, leading to no trials and no convictions.
Between January and May this year, 41 people were caught or arrested for pickpocketing. The numbers increased in June and July, with 11 arrests reported in the first two weeks of May. All those arrested were minors, but five could not be prosecuted because they were under the age of 14.
Perspectives from Authorities
Commandant Agostini downplayed concerns that Venice is uniquely affected compared to other Italian tourist hotspots like Milan, Rome, Florence, or Naples. However, he acknowledged the difficulty in securing convictions under current Italian law. He cited the case of an alleged Venetian burglar known as “The Grasshopper,” who has been arrested multiple times for breaking into buildings.
Calls for Change
Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro has called for immediate changes to the law and broader police powers to address the growing issue of pickpocketing. As the city continues to grapple with this challenge, the need for stronger legal frameworks and more effective policing strategies becomes increasingly apparent.
