Despite no forensic evidence linking him to the .22 caliber rifle and no proven ability to perform surgical excisions, Pacciani was convicted in 1994 and sentenced to life in prison. The prosecution’s case relied on the testimony of "repentant" criminals and a bizarre theory that Pacciani operated in a satanic triad with two other men.
The case consumed the lives of judges, journalists, and detectives. It drew in the American author Douglas Preston, who co-wrote the definitive account The Monster of Florence after moving to Italy – only to find himself investigated as a potential suspect. It haunted the writer Mario Spezi, who had his home raided and was arrested for his reporting. Il Mostro Di Firenze -The Monster Of Florence- ...