Rome: A self-styled ‘Ethiopian princess’ was found guilty Thursday of stalking her ex-boyfriend and Paralympic swimming medallist Manuel Bortuzzo.
According to Ansa News Agency, the woman, Lucrezia Hail© Selassi¨, received a suspended sentence of one year and eight months for her actions against Bortuzzo, who earned a bronze medal in the men’s 100 m breaststroke SB4 in Paris last year. The case highlighted the ongoing harassment faced by Bortuzzo, who has been dealing with the aftermath of a life-altering incident.
Bortuzzo, 25, was left paralysed from the waist down following a shooting outside a Rome pub in February 2019, where he was an innocent bystander. The incident significantly impacted his life, yet he continued to excel in his sporting career, achieving international recognition.
Sealassi¨ was convicted of stalking Bortuzzo for months, with threats escalating to the point where she allegedly threatened his life should he refuse to return to her. The court’s verdict marks a significant legal step in addressing the persistent harassment endured by the athlete.
