De receptatoribus

Abstract

In this contribution I tried to analyze the figure of the receptor/receptator, that is the abettor of latrones (but also of others crime), the one who grant them aid and without whom, as Ulpiano and Marciano say, no fugitive can extend his unavailability long (sine quibus latro diutius latere non potest). After a careful etymological analysis of words receptor and fautor, that led to exclude the presence in the sources of typical features of the today’s crime of receiving stolen property, I proceeded to examine the passages in which it seem to recognize the first episodes of abetment (Liv. 39.17.3; D. 47.14.3.3 e D. 48.3.6.1). Then I considered the cases recalled in the Severus jurisprudence and by imperial intervention and at last I realized a careful examination of respective titles of the Codex Theodosianus e of the Codex Iustinianus.