danneggiamento

Danneggiamento is an Italian legal term referring to the damage or destruction of property belonging to another person. In the Italian criminal code, the offense is generally described as destroying, damaging, or rendering unusable a thing that is the property of someone else, including partial impairment that reduces its use or value. The provision is codified in Article 635 of the Codice Penale (Criminal Code).

The elements of the offense concern intervention on a property that results in a detriment to its usability or purpose. The conduct is typically carried out through direct actions that destroy, deteriorate, or impede the use of the property. The formulation focuses on the result for the property rather than on the motive, and the crime can be pursued when the damaging action is intentional and, in certain forms, may also arise from negligent conduct.

There are aggravating circumstances recognized by the code. Danni to goods of public utility, cultural property, or assets of particular importance, as well as circumstances involving violence, threats, or multiple participants, can lead to a harsher sanction. The exact penalties are defined by law and may include detention or fines, with possible increases in more serious cases.

In addition to criminal liability, the responsible party may face civil liability for damages caused to the harmed party, potentially requiring compensation or restoration of the damaged property. The doctrine and jurisprudence further distinguish danneggiamento from related offenses such as theft or vandalism, focusing specifically on the impairment of another’s property rather than theft or unlawful seizure.