Commentary on Judgment No. 44064 of 2024: Qualification of Organizer in Criminal Association

The recent judgment No. 44064 of October 23, 2024, issued by the Court of Cassation, offers an important reflection on the figure of the organizer in the context of criminal association. This ruling emphasizes that the qualification of organizer does not necessarily require a direct coordinating role in the activities of others, but rather focuses on the ability to manage the use of resources and associative structures for the realization of a criminal program.

Criteria for Identifying the Organizer

According to the judgment, the qualification of organizer belongs to those who, autonomously, coordinate and manage the resources necessary for the implementation of a criminal project. This implies that the individual in question must:

  • Manage the coordination of associative resources;
  • Acquire the means necessary for the implementation of the criminal program;
  • Assume an essential and non-substitutable role within the association.

It is interesting to note how the Court reiterates that it is not essential for the organizer to have directing or coordinating tasks in relation to other members of the association. This aspect is fundamental to understand the variety of roles that can exist within a criminal organization and the responsibility of each individual.

The Maxim of the Judgment

Qualification of organizer - Criteria for identification. In the context of criminal association, the qualification of organizer belongs to those who, autonomously, manage the coordination and use of associative structures and resources as well as acquire the means necessary for the realization of the criminal program, engaging in an activity that assumes the characteristics of essentiality and non-substitutability, it not being necessary for the same to also be entrusted with tasks of coordination and direction of the activities of other subjects.

This maxim represents an important guide for judges and legal practitioners, as it clarifies the boundaries and responsibilities linked to the figure of the organizer. The distinction between organizer and simple participant in the association is crucial for determining criminal responsibilities and potential penalties.

Conclusions

In conclusion, judgment No. 44064 of 2024 offers an important interpretation of the role of the organizer in the context of criminal association. The Court of Cassation, through this decision, not only clarifies the responsibilities related to this figure but also contributes to outlining a more precise legal framework regarding the phenomenon of criminal associations. It is essential that legal practitioners consider these criteria in their activities to ensure the correct application of the norms and fair justice.

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