Over 20 mafia members have been released from prison in Italy, raising concerns among victims’ families about their potential return to crime.
Palermo: Recently, over 20 mafia mobsters got out of prison in Italy. They showed good behavior, and now some folks are worried they might go back to their old ways.
These guys, part of the Sicilian mafia, were released on furlough. If they keep their noses clean, they could stay out for good. But families of their victims are understandably anxious.
Many of these crime bosses, who once ruled the streets of Palermo, haven’t turned on the Cosa Nostra. They’re still tight-lipped with the authorities, which is a big concern.
Salvatore Borsellino, whose brother was a famous anti-mafia judge killed by the mob, said this is dangerous. He believes letting these mobsters out is a serious blow to fighting the mafia.
He pointed out that these guys will regain their power and respect in the mafia world just by being released without snitching on anyone.
Nino Morana Agostino, who lost his uncle to mafia violence, echoed these fears. He stressed that we can’t let our guard down against the mafia. These released mobsters still know a lot about unsolved crimes.
In October, a 74-year-old mafia boss named Raffaele Galatolo was let out after being called a model prisoner. He and his brother were involved in some pretty gruesome stuff back in the day.
Just a week before, another mobster, Giuseppe Corona, was released after waiting a long time for his trial. It seems like a lot of these guys are getting out lately.
Palermo’s chief prosecutor is worried that the mafia might try to regroup after years of decline. Experts say this situation is a perfect storm for the mafia.
New laws in Italy now allow these mobsters to get out early if they haven’t cooperated with the police. Unfortunately, prison officials don’t check with prosecutors before letting them go.
Police are concerned that if too many of these guys come back to the community, it could help the mafia get back on its feet and send a message that they’re untouchable.
Professor Varese from Oxford explained that joining the mafia is a lifelong commitment, and leaving can be deadly. So, it’s likely these guys will jump right back into their old activities.
