The move has been hailed by the right-wing League party who say it enables the conviction of pregnant Roma bag snatchers who had thus far not been held accountable.
“Pregnant women and women with children younger than one year old who are convicted of crimes that warrant jail time will actually serve it,” said Salvini.
“[This was] a measure wanted by the League against those cowardly bag snatchers and thieves who, taking advantage of their pregnant state, act with impunity…
“[They] rob citizens, workers and tourists, often trying to strike the most fragile and elderly.”
Salvini, who has often commented on such alleged criminals on Milan and Rome metros on Italian TV, said “enough is enough”.
Roma people are considered one of the most marginalised minorities in Europe. According to the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights, 80 per cent of Roma people live below the poverty line.
ANSA
