A court has ordered a woman to pay £390,000 in damages to the family of her lover who died during a bondage session. The incident occurred when regional transport executive Riccardo Sansebastiano, 61, suffocated while engaging in a sex game involving collars and handcuffs with his partner, architect Gianna Damonte, now 67. Damonte was convicted of manslaughter in 2022 and sentenced to a year in jail. The court in Alessandria, Italy, where the couple resided, mandated the compensation payout. The total amount, including fees and interest, could exceed £400,000.
The judge ruled that Damonte, although convicted of manslaughter, was deemed 60% responsible for Sansebastiano’s death. Prosecutors revealed that Sansebastiano passed away after enduring hours of distress during the session at Damonte’s apartment. He was found tied to a post, unresponsive when Damonte returned.
Damonte called for medical help, but Sansebastiano was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators discovered alcohol bottles, ropes, and the ligature present, noting that high temperatures on the day also played a role in the tragic outcome.
During the trial, Damonte shared that the bondage ritual was consensual, and she had intended to release him after a few hours. She described their long-standing relationship and the familiarity with such practices. Damonte detailed the events leading to Sansebastiano’s death, emphasizing his preferences and their shared experiences.
Following the court’s ruling, the victim’s family expressed satisfaction with the compensation decision, acknowledging the emotional toll of the case. Their lawyer mentioned a potential appeal but expressed relief at the conclusion of the distressing legal proceedings.