In a significant legal ruling, Lucrezia Hailé Selassiè, known as Lulù, was sentenced to 1 year and 8 months in prison, with the sentence suspended, for stalking paralympic swimming champion Manuel Bortuzzo. The verdict, delivered on April 3, 2025, comes after months of legal proceedings that highlighted the troubling dynamics of their relationship, which began during their participation in the reality show Big Brother VIP in 2021.
The case has drawn considerable media attention, particularly due to the nature of the accusations against Selassiè, who was found guilty of persecuting Bortuzzo for several months. The prosecution detailed how Selassiè threatened Bortuzzo with death if he did not resume their relationship, which had turned toxic after their initial romance blossomed in the reality show environment.
According to the prosecutor's office, Selassiè's actions caused Bortuzzo to experience significant anxiety and fear for his safety, compelling him to alter his daily habits. Bortuzzo, who was present in court for the sentencing, had previously taken legal action against Selassiè due to her increasingly aggressive behavior. This included sending threatening messages and stalking him, even following him to hospital appointments related to his health issues stemming from a 2019 shooting that left him paralyzed from the waist down.
The prosecutor had initially requested a sentence of 1 year and 4 months, indicating the severity of Selassiè's actions. The judge ultimately decided on a longer sentence, reflecting the impact of her behavior on Bortuzzo’s life. Selassiè had previously admitted to her obsessive behaviors before the preliminary hearing on January 28, opting for a fast-track trial process.
The relationship between Bortuzzo and Selassiè began in the 2021-2022 season of Big Brother VIP, where the two contestants developed a romantic connection. However, their relationship ended abruptly in April 2022, a conclusion that Selassiè reportedly struggled to accept. Following the breakup, her behavior escalated into harassment, prompting Bortuzzo to seek legal protection.
In a statement issued by Selassiè’s lawyers on December 9, they expressed concern over the public dissemination of information related to the case, which they claimed led to a wave of defamatory comments directed at Selassiè and her family. The lawyers argued that the media coverage surrounding the case had been intrusive and damaging, further complicating the situation for their client.
Despite the legal outcome, the emotional and psychological toll on both parties remains a focal point of discussion. Bortuzzo, who has faced immense challenges since the shooting incident, now has to navigate the aftermath of this tumultuous relationship while continuing to advocate for himself and his future.
The court's decision serves as a reminder of the serious implications of stalking and harassment, particularly in cases involving public figures. It underscores the need for legal systems to address such behavior decisively, ensuring victims feel safe and supported.
As the legal proceedings conclude, both Bortuzzo and Selassiè are left to deal with the consequences of their actions and the public scrutiny that comes with their high-profile status. The case has sparked conversations about mental health, the impact of reality television on personal relationships, and the responsibilities of individuals in the public eye.
Moving forward, it will be essential for both individuals to seek healing and resolution from this difficult chapter in their lives. For Bortuzzo, the focus will likely remain on his recovery and continued success in his athletic endeavors, while Selassiè may need to reflect on her actions and their repercussions.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the potential for harm when boundaries are crossed. The legal system's response to such incidents is crucial in shaping societal norms around consent, respect, and personal safety.
