Naples: Why do so many minors commit crimes? The worrying data.

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Naples: Why Too Many Minors Commit Crimes: Worrying Data from TCWI

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Naples – The second warrant issued against a 16-year-old boy for attempted murder, who according to the investigating judge has a "propensity to commit crime," calls for a reflection on youth crimes in Naples and the surrounding province.

Regarding their ease in obtaining and using any type of weapon and thus committing crimes, the news in recent years, unfortunately, is full of "crime" incidents involving young people.

This picture highlights the serious nature of juvenile crime in Naples, marked by increasingly frequent and violent incidents. The doubling of precautionary measures and the widespread use of weapons among very young people require a comprehensive response: prevention in schools, family support, social surveillance, and coordinated interventions between the judiciary and law enforcement.

Analysis and trends

Serious crimes on the rise : homicides, armed robberies, attempted homicides, and brawls involving the use of knives or firearms have doubled in one year, as highlighted by the Court of Appeal.

Disturbing presence of weapons among minors: the possession of weapons, often unregistered guns or knives, is a recurring phenomenon reported in various cases (nightlife, robberies, chases).

The business of child gangs and collective deviance: networks of organized youth, a social media emergency with videos glorifying violence, collective movements fueling criminal culture.

Chronology of juvenile crimes in Naples (May 2024 – May 2025)

May 2024
May 12 — During nightlife checks in the Spagnoli and Chiaia neighborhoods, a 17-year-old was stopped on a scooter with a 9mm pistol and a bullet in the chamber. A 15-year-old was found with a 16cm knife. Both were charged with illegal possession of a weapon and receiving stolen goods.

June 2024
June 6 — Police arrested two minors in a car after a chase in Naples. A 16-year-old was charged with resisting arrest, assaulting a public official, and possession of weapons (replica and screwdrivers).

October 2024
Late October — Three minors were issued pre-trial detention orders for attempted aggravated murder, possession of a weapon, snatching theft, receiving stolen goods, and assault, following a series of armed attacks between May and July in various neighborhoods (Vicaria, Vasto, and Arenaccia). Among them was a 14-year-old boy deemed "highly dangerous."

April 2025
April 17 — Two young men, aged 20 and 17 (the second minor), were arrested for committing six robberies in 6 minutes, targeting young people in the Vomero and Arenella areas. They fled with a knife and a stolen scooter. The minor was placed in the IPM (Intensive Care Unit).

December 2024 (annual summary data)
According to the President of the Court of Appeal, very serious crimes committed by minors have almost doubled compared to 2023, with over 100 precautionary measures issued (compared to approximately 50).

Proceedings for weapons and assault have increased significantly: 409 for weapons possession, 61 for firearms, and 1.086 for serious assault. Juvenile Court cases have increased by approximately 300.

February 2025
A nationwide anti-baby gang operation also involves minors in Naples: 13 minors were arrested, others charged with crimes against persons, possession of weapons, drug dealing, and receiving stolen goods. 600 social media profiles linked to hate and violence were also identified.

May 2025
May 26 — In Afragola (province of Naples), the femicide of Martina Carbonaro, a fourteen-year-old victim, occurred after being stoned to death by her 18-year-old ex-boyfriend. This tragedy has sparked widespread discussion about monitoring and preventing cases of violence among adolescents.

Summary table of main cases (2024-2025)
Date of Crime / Event Minors involved
12/05/2024 Armed nightlife (gun, knife) 17 years old, 15 years old
06/06/2024 Pursuit and resistance 16-year-old with replica weapon
October 2024 Attempted murder and robbery 14–? years old
April 17, 04 Six robberies in 2025 minutes, 15-year-old with adult accomplice
February 2025 National baby gang arrests 13 minors arrested
26/05/2025 Femicide with 14-year-old victim (committed by an 18-year-old)

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