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Extortion and Participation of Persons: Analysis of Judgment No. 17918 of 2023

The recent judgment No. 17918 of 2023 by the Court of Cassation provides significant insights regarding the concept of extortion, particularly on the participation of persons and the responsibility of those acting without a subjective qualification. This article will explore the legal implications of this ruling, analyzing the meaning of the maxim and the Italian regulatory context.

The Context of the Judgment

The Court of Cassation, in its decision, addressed the issue of the participation of persons in the crime of extortion, establishing that even a subject lacking subjective qualification can be held responsible, provided that their conduct contributes to creating a state of coercion or subjection in the victim. This interpretation fits into a complex regulatory framework, grounded in Article 110 of the Penal Code, concerning the participation of persons in the crime.

The Maxim of the Judgment

Participation of persons - Typical action carried out by the "extraneus" - Possibility - Conditions. In the context of extortion, the typical action can also be performed by a participant lacking subjective qualification, provided that they, in agreement with the holder of the public position, engage in conduct that contributes to creating in the passive subject the state of coercion or subjection functional to an act of asset disposition, and that the victim is aware that the benefit is requested and desired by the public official.

This maxim highlights two fundamental conditions: the first concerns the conduct of the participant which must align with the will of the public official; the second concerns the victim's awareness regarding the request for benefit. These elements are crucial for establishing criminal responsibility, clarifying that even those not holding an official position can actively participate in the crime.

Legal and Regulatory Implications

The implications of this ruling are manifold and require further examination. In particular, it can be observed how the judgment places significant weight on the relational dynamics between public officials and external subjects. It is interesting to note that, similarly to other previous rulings, such as No. 21192 of 2013, the Court continues to reiterate the importance of mutual awareness and will between the parties involved in an act of extortion.

  • Recognition of responsibility even for those who are not public officials.
  • Necessity of an agreement between the public official and the extraneus.
  • Awareness of the victim regarding the request for benefit.

Conclusions

In conclusion, judgment No. 17918 of 2023 represents a step forward in the legal understanding of extortion and the participation of persons. It clarifies that criminal responsibility is not limited to public officials alone, but can also extend to those who, while not holding an official qualification, actively collaborate in the commission of the crime. This principle fits into a regulatory context aimed at ensuring greater responsibility and transparency in the relationships between citizens and public administration.