delitti

Delitti is plural of delitto and, in Italian criminal law, denotes offenses punishable by criminal penalties that are considered more serious than contravvenzioni. The broader term reato refers to any criminal offense, while delitto is typically used for the harder, more serious crimes. The word originates from the Latin delictum, meaning an offense or fault, and it has a central role in legal texts and jurisprudence.

Delitti are classified according to culpability and nature of the conduct. Doloso indicates intentional wrongdoing, where the offender acts with purpose or awareness of the likely results. Colposo denotes negligence or imprudence, where harm arises from a lack of due care. Some contexts recognize delitto preterintenzionale, where the actual harm exceeds the offender’s initial intent. Delitti can be consummated or attempted (tentato delitto), with penalties calibrated to the severity and category of the offense.

Penalties for delitti are determined by the Codice Penale and related statutes and may include imprisonment, fines, or other measures such as rehabilitation or social services, depending on the offense and circumstances. The distinction between delitto and contravvenzione influences procedural handling and sentencing, reflecting the varying gravity of criminal conduct.

Common examples of delitti include omicidio doloso (intentional homicide), omicidio colposo (negligent homicide), furto doloso (theft with intent), and rapina (robbery), among other serious crimes. The concept remains central to Italian criminal justice, guiding classification, prosecution, and punishment of criminal acts.