Criminal or Crisis? Madness and Liability in the Modena Attack
From Forensic Psychology by Circle Of Insight Productions
May 28, 2026 · 5 min
About this episode
This episode explores the forensic criteria for determining criminal responsibility in the context of the Modena attack and the implications of a psychiatric break.
Following the horrific ramming on Via Emilia, Italian authorities quickly ruled out international terrorism, pointing instead to a severe psychiatric break. However, a crucial legal battle has emerged: the investigating judge recently noted a lack of concrete evidence proving the suspect completely lacked cognitive control during the offense. This episode examines the intricate forensic criteria used to determine criminal responsibility, criminal intent, and whether a psychotic break legally absolves an offender of their actions.
Topics covered
- forensic psychology
- criminal responsibility
- psychotic break
- legal battle
- cognitive control
Keywords
- criminal intent
- forensic criteria
- psychotic break
- cognitive control
- legal responsibility
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Italian authorities
Places: Modena, Via Emilia
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