Naples, new blood and the Mafia

In Naples, the Camorra mafia gangs hold power over the region, and their widespread influence pervades everyday life, even among the youth. The so-called “baby gangsters” are the subject of much debate, with murals and makeshift altars all over town, paying homage to the young Mafiosi who have died in the name of organized crime.

One man, Father Luigi Merola, attempts to bring morality and compassion to bear against the Camorra’s violent presence. A former parish priest, he now works as a street priest running a youth center, and argues against the hero-worship of young criminals. In the power struggle between the Camorra and those who would resist them, Father Merola is a unique voice.