Salvatore Curcio was installed as the new Chief Prosecutor of Catanzaro on February 1, 2025, during an official ceremony attended by high-ranking officials of the judiciary, including Giovanni Melillo, the National Anti-Mafia Prosecutor, and Nicola Gratteri, the Prosecutor of Naples.
Curcio, who has had a lengthy career within the judiciary, having worked for 28 years previously at Catanzaro, emphasized the importance of institutional credibility, especially within the difficult terrain of his new jurisdiction. "We operate - he stated during his inaugural speech - in a tough territory where the credibility of institutions is fundamental, but credibility stems from coherence. I accept the challenge but would like it to be clear: the state's repressive action is not enough against 'ndrangheta; the commitment of all is necessary," Curcio proclaimed.
His remarks underscored the belief shared among several attendees, who suggested the fight against organized crime should not rest solely with the magistracy and law enforcement. "The greatest gift to 'ndrangheta was to have delegated the fight solely to the judiciary and the police forces. Instead, everyone has to step up, as there’s no room for immobile escapes and social disengagement," Curcio insisted.
During the ceremony, Curcio expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Vincenzo Capomolla, who led the prosecutor's office prior to his nomination, and paid homage to the support from his family, indicating his perseverance through challenging times.
Curcio has also been vocal about his opposition to recent government proposals aimed at separating the careers of judges and prosecutors. He firmly criticized this legislative move, stating, "The reform lacks explanation and logical justification. If we verify the numbers, the transition of functions from judging to prosecuting, and vice versa, constitutes less than one percent among magistrates." He concluded his remarks on the matter by asserting, "This proposed reform is entirely useless and will not address the issues of expeditious trials and the resolution of criminal proceedings. There are other profiles and perspectives on which to intervene instead."
His commitment to strong institutional collaboration was echoed by Melillo as well, who remarked during the event, "The judiciary's independence is a guarantee of democracy, and separating careers does not solve the problems." Melillo called for mutual respect and dialogue, criticizing the prevalent invective present within institutional relations today.
Curcio’s return to the front lines of justice signifies not only personal reinvention but also the collective hope for renewing efforts against crime and enhancing community interaction within the judicial framework of Catanzaro.
Throughout his speech, Curcio highlighted the need for magistrates, especially young ones, to remain vigilant and engaged with the community they serve. He remixed phrases of wisdom, urging, "Be operators of justice and not mere law practitioners," emphasizing the overarching responsibility of the judiciary as not just authority but service to the public.
Lastly, with solidarity at the forefront, Curcio reaffirmed, "From Monday, we will all roll our sleeves up," indicating readiness to tackle the pressing challenges awaiting his leadership. His charismatic tone, punctuated with culturally rich phrases, such as "A Maronna ci accumpagni," served as both motivation and cultural anchor as he embarks on this new chapter.