Overview
- Judge Gianmarco Giua found sufficient evidence to proceed on the alleged crime of killing an animal with cruelty and without necessity.
- Two senior officials—Raffaele De Col and Giovanni Giovannini—were recorded as suspects in carrying out the February 2024 decree issued after reports that the radiocollared bear followed hikers and approached settlements.
- The order cites findings that M90 was not anesthetized, was hit by two shots, and died from internal bleeding after a prolonged agony.
- The court notes alleged breaches of the PACOBACE protocol and the absence of the mandatory health authority’s veterinary presence.
- Maurizio Fugatti defends the decree as lawful and aimed at public safety, while animal-welfare group ENPA welcomes the decision as a milestone for wildlife protection.