ABSTRACT
In the aftermath of the Sicilian ‘derby’ on 2 February 2007 between Catania and Palermo, riotous violence broke out between rival fans and police on the grounds surrounding the stadium in Catania. In the melee, 38-year-old police officer, Filippo Raciti, was struck and fell to the ground. He was taken to the hospital where he died that night. Initial reports suggested that Raciti was hit with an explosive while later reports found that he died of blunt trauma, perhaps by being hit by a dislodged water heater. Raciti’s death was tragic. He left behind a wife and two children and the tragedy saddened the nation. Though often skeptical of police and authority, the majority of Italians hearts and minds were with Raciti. Eventually, two fans, one 17 years old and the other 21, were found guilty of homicide, though both maintain their innocence.1 The Italian football league was suspended for a week of mourning and the national team cancelled an upcoming friendly match. Politicians announced that something had to be done to secure the stadiums. While they were correct – the senseless and tragic death of Raciti should have been avoided – the ensuing policies were controversial and possibly unconstitutional and did little to foster an atmosphere of trust between police and fans.
