Luca Abete, the well-known investigative journalist, has turned his lens on Pino Grazioli, a fellow journalist closely associated with deputy Francesco Emilio Borrelli of the Alleanza Verdi Sinistra party. Abete's report, aired on April 18, 2025, raises serious allegations against Grazioli, claiming he has been posting intimidating, violent, and persecutory videos on social media targeting those who oppose him. The situation escalates further, as Grazioli is accused of organizing punitive expeditions to the homes of his critics.
In his report, Abete highlighted the troubling dynamics between Grazioli and Borrelli, questioning the deputy's stance on Grazioli's behavior. "Pino cannot continue to have these tones if he wants to continue fighting battles with me," Borrelli stated during an interview on the satirical news program Striscia la Notizia. The deputy, known for his active denunciations of social injustices, emphasized that he does not condone Grazioli's aggressive tactics.
When pressed further about the allegations of intimidation and harassment, Borrelli firmly asserted, "I am against going to people's homes; punitive expeditions are unacceptable." His comments reflect a clear disapproval of Grazioli's methods, indicating a rift between the two despite their past collaborations. Borrelli's response raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of journalists and the potential consequences of their actions.
Grazioli's controversial behavior is not limited to his online presence. He has previously been involved in a heated confrontation with Abete during an investigation into a store in Naples that was allegedly engaging in dubious practices involving a 'double listino'—a dual pricing system that favored cash transactions. This practice allowed customers to save money by paying in cash, which is often associated with tax evasion.
During this investigation, Abete faced hostility from the store's staff, who reportedly mistreated him and even locked him inside the premises. Instead of supporting Abete in the aftermath of this aggression, Grazioli criticized Striscia la Notizia, questioning why the program's journalist had not shown solidarity. "Why did the journalist attack Striscia instead of expressing solidarity for the aggression he suffered?" Abete remarked, suggesting that Grazioli's critique may stem from his ties to the business in question.
The entire situation poses significant ethical questions regarding the role of journalists in society. Abete's investigation into Grazioli's actions has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of journalists to uphold ethical standards, particularly when their tactics may cross the line into intimidation or harassment.
As the story unfolds, many are left wondering what the Order of Journalists will say about Grazioli's conduct. Abete's reporting not only highlights the troubling behavior of one journalist but also calls into question the accountability mechanisms in place for those in the media. Will there be repercussions for Grazioli's actions? Only time will tell.
This incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that journalists must maintain between advocacy and accountability. While it is crucial to fight for justice and truth, it is equally important to do so without resorting to tactics that undermine the very principles of journalism. As this story develops, the public will be watching closely to see how both Borrelli and the Order of Journalists respond to the allegations surrounding Grazioli.
