A dramatic gesture of solidarity in Salerno’s penitentiary highlights the urgency of mental health care in Italian prisons
A dramatic rescue in Salerno’s prison
A tragic event was narrowly avoided in the Fuorni prison in Salerno, where an inmate attempted to take his own life by hanging himself. The quick intervention of F.D., a fellow detainee, prevented the suicide, saving a life in one of the most isolated places in society.
The story was made public by Aurelio Desiderio, father of F.D., and by Samuele Ciambriello, Prisoners’ Rights Ombudsman of the Campania Region, who stressed the importance of giving visibility to such acts of bravery and solidarity behind bars.
A gesture that breaks the silence of prison life
“People need to know what happens behind bars,” said Mr. Desiderio. “Alongside pain and suffering, there are also gestures of fraternity and empathy that deserve recognition.”
Too often, prisons are only in the news for riots, overcrowding, or suicides. But this story shows that dignity can survive even in the harshest of places, and that inmates are not only defined by their crimes but also by the choices they make while serving time.
Mental health in prisons: a growing crisis
The inmate who attempted suicide is now under observation. While his life was saved, the case underscores a growing concern: the mental health crisis in Italian prisons.
Over 60 suicides were recorded in penitentiaries in 2024 alone, a tragic signal of a broken system. But the act of F.D. shows that even where institutions fail, individual humanity can intervene.
A call for attention, and for recognition
For Samuele Ciambriello, this case is not only about prevention, but also about highlighting positive behavior within prison walls: “This is the kind of story that must reach public opinion. There are people in prison who do not give up on others. And that matters.”
He also renewed his call for better support, especially psychological care and monitoring of vulnerable individuals, to prevent similar events in the future.
Prison is not the end: it can be the start of something better
This story reminds us that prison can be a place of transformation. It can be a space where those who were once lost can find a sense of community, even by saving a life.
F.D. is not just an inmate—he is a person who chose not to look away. And that choice deserves to be remembered and respected.
10 frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Where did the suicide attempt take place?
At Fuorni prison in Salerno, Italy.
2. Who saved the inmate?
Another detainee identified as F.D.
3. What was the method of the suicide attempt?
The inmate attempted to hang himself.
4. How was the incident made public?
Through F.D.’s father, Aurelio Desiderio, and Samuele Ciambriello, regional Prisoners’ Rights Ombudsman.
5. What happened to the inmate who tried to take his life?
He is now under medical observation.
6. Is this a common occurrence in Italian prisons?
Unfortunately, suicides are becoming more frequent due to poor mental health support.
7. What is the response of the Ombudsman?
He emphasized the importance of highlighting positive stories and improving mental health care.
8. What does this event reveal about life in prison?
That even in suffering, acts of kindness and heroism can emerge.
9. Has F.D. been officially recognized for his act?
Not yet, though public support for recognition is growing.
10. What can be done to prevent suicides in prison?
Better psychological support, monitoring at-risk inmates, and a human-centered prison policy.
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