CATANZARO, Italy – A 33-year-old Italian mobster serving a life sentence in a Calabrian prison has gained attention for his academic achievements, particularly after he penned a 170-page thesis confessing to three unsolved murders. Catello Romano, who was convicted in the 2009 murder of a Naples councilman and other crimes, graduated magnum cum laude with a sociology degree based on his life of crime.
Romano detailed his criminal history in the thesis, expressing remorse and reflecting on his upbringing and reasons for turning to a life of crime. He confessed to the murders of a rival mobster and two others, leading prosecutors to consider reopening the cases.
The mobster’s academic advisor, a university professor and sociologist, described Romano as a “brilliant student” who meticulously detailed his crimes. The thesis aimed to understand the criminal phenomenon and contribute to its prevention, reflecting Romano’s desire for a better future.
Although Romano’s academic achievements have drawn attention, his confession to the unsolved killings has led to potential legal consequences as prosecutors weigh reopening the cases. Meanwhile, the mobster’s academic advisor has praised his work for its thorough analysis of his life through a sociological research method with therapeutic benefits.
Romano’s case highlights the complexities of criminal rehabilitation and the impact of academic pursuits in a prison setting. The mobster’s path from a life of crime to academic achievement reflects the potential for personal growth and transformation, even in the most unexpected of circumstances.