Costantino Russo died in prison: he had just repented. He is the son of Casalesi boss Peppe o' Padrino.

The death of Costantino Russo, 39, son of Casalesi clan boss Giuseppe Russo, known in criminal circles as Peppe 'o Padrino, is shrouded in mystery. The 39-year-old passed away inside the prison where he was being held, according to initial reports of a sudden illness, likely a heart attack. However, the Naples Public Prosecutor's Office—through the District Anti-Mafia Directorate led by Deputy Prosecutor Michele Del Prete—has decided to order immediate investigations to clarify the cause of death beyond any doubt.

The choice of repentance and the family's endorsement

Making the case particularly sensitive is the decision Russo made shortly after his arrest: the 39-year-old had begun cooperating with the justice system. This decision had a significant impact on the balance of power within Caserta's organized crime syndicate, and was openly approved and shared by the man's wife and children.

It is precisely by virtue of this imminent and precious wealth of information intended for investigators that the judiciary intends to shed full light on the circumstances of his disappearance.

The clan's regency and the blitz last July

Russo was arrested on July 7th following a joint operation by the DIA and the Guardia di Finanza. According to investigative reports, he had assumed leadership of the Russo-Schiavone Camorra faction to fill the power vacuum created by the detention of his father and uncles Massimo, Francesco, and Corrado, longtime loyalists of clan leader Francesco "Sandokan" Schiavone.

The seizure of the financial empire

The investigation that culminated in the summer raid uncovered a complex and thriving network of money laundering and self-laundering. Law enforcement carried out the precautionary seizure of over 14 businesses—with an estimated value of around two million euros—including ice cream parlors, betting bars, and renowned beach resorts located along the coast between Castel Volturno and Pineta Grande, as well as luxury goods and the seizure of €100 in cash.