Nicole Berlusconi, a figure known for her animal rights activism, is now facing serious charges. In 2023, she reported an equestrian center in Mapello, Bergamo, alleging that the animals were being mistreated.
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However, Berlusconi has currently been sent for trial by the Court of Bergamo for slander, defamation, violation of domicile and unlawful interference in private life.
Accusations and complaints
The prosecution claims that Nicole Berlusconi “falsely accused” the riding school’s president of mistreatment, “knowing her to be innocent,” with the intent of hindering the normal operation of the riding center.
Furthermore, it emerged that the 36-year-old, communicating with several people, had “offended the honor and reputation” of the president herself, publishing “some denigrating comments” on social media and a website. According to the reconstruction of the Prosecutor's Office, she had also entered the center to film and take photos “against the express will of the president”.
Following these attacks, the non-profit organization she founded, Islander Project, had filed a complaint referring to “many situations of neglect”. However, subsequent investigations did not reveal any criminal irregularities, leading the court to dismiss the complaint “due to the groundlessness of the news of the crime”.
The accusations had however had serious consequences on the riding school, which was closed by the managers, who claim that this decision was triggered by Berlusconi's statements. The riding center, until its closure, was also frequented by Michela Brambilla, a former parliamentarian known for her commitment to animal rights. "Now we help the animals anyway, while for the events of 2023 we hope for justice", declared the managers.
Defense and next steps
Nicole Berlusconi, through her lawyer Michela Masoero of the Turin bar, said she feels calm. “She is calm, we will defend ourselves on the merits,” the lawyer said. The 36-year-old is expected in court on June 12, where she will have to face the charges brought against her.
Article published on 27 February 2025 - 09:05
I am not sure what to think about this situation, it seems very complicated and difficult to understand. It is sad that animals suffer and at the same time, one should not accuse without evidence. Justice must take its course.