by InTrieste
Interviews: Caterina de Gavardo, the city councilor for Security Policies, Police Commander Walter Milocchi
On Tuesday morning, the city’s Police Locale commemorated its 163rd anniversary with a public presentation of its annual activity report. The event was held outside the S. Sebastiano police barracks on Via Revoltella, with city officials including Caterina de Gavardo, the city councilor for Security Policies, Police Commander Walter Milocchi, and Deputy Commander Paolo Jerman in attendance.
Councillor de Gavardo opened the press conference by highlighting the enduring role of the Police Locale in serving the city. “For 163 years, this force has worked alongside and for the city, adapting to changing needs over time,” she said. She emphasized that safety — encompassing workplace, urban, road, and consumer security — remains a top priority, noting its crucial link to economic and cultural development.
De Gavardo detailed several new initiatives arising from close attention to community needs. Starting later this year and into 2025, officers will increase foot patrols in city neighborhoods twice a week. The force will also introduce a canine unit aimed at supporting investigations and deterring crime. Perhaps most notably, a 24-hour service will be launched, allowing the Police Locale to respond to nighttime incidents such as traffic accidents, thereby freeing other law enforcement agencies to focus on broader urban security concerns.
The councillor also reminded the public that the application deadline for a recruitment drive of 19 new officers closes on June 11. She encouraged interested candidates to apply, highlighting the organization’s strong structure and opportunities for personal and professional growth. She took the opportunity to thank senior officers nearing retirement for their years of dedicated service.
Police Commander Walter Milocchi addressed the ongoing challenge of traffic accidents, which remain a significant issue for the force. From May 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025, the Police Locale recorded nearly 2,000 traffic incidents, including 11 fatalities. Milocchi expressed concern that recent updates to traffic laws may not yet be fully understood or followed, despite extensive road safety education efforts conducted in schools throughout the region.
Milocchi also noted the Police Locale’s expanded role in supporting tourism safety. This includes inspections of short-term rental properties to verify the presence of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and compliance with traffic regulations, aiming to ensure the city remains a welcoming and secure destination.
Deputy Commander Paolo Jerman highlighted the ceremonial unit within the force, which participates in local and national civil and religious events. These officers, he said, represent the city with honor by carrying the official city banner — decorated with a gold medal for military valor — and the Police Locale’s own flag, which has been awarded a gold medal for civil merit. Jerman also pointed out the unique presence of a police band as part of the force’s public engagement efforts.
Finally, Jerman underscored the importance of the administrative support team, which plays a critical role in maintaining a high standard of service for the city’s residents.
The anniversary event underscored the Police Locale’s commitment to evolving with the city’s needs, balancing tradition with new strategies aimed at improving safety and community relations.
