De poenis libri
Ex libro III
Modestinus, On Punishments, Book III. When anyone swears in a written instrument that property pledged belongs to him, thereby committing perjury, it becomes Stellionatus, and therefore the culprit should be sent into temporary exile.
Modestinus, On Punishments, Book III. The magistrate who is about to hear the cases of prisoners should invoke the aid of the most illustrious citizens, as well as of the most eminent advocates, if they all reside in the principal city of the province where he exercises jurisdiction. 1It is provided by a rescript that prisoners can be examined even on feast days, so that he may dismiss such as are innocent, and continue the cases of those who are guilty, and deserve severe punishment.
Modestinus, On Punishments, Book III. Those who voluntarily or maliciously commit murder are usually deported, if they are of high rank; but if they are of inferior station they are punished with death. This, however, is more excusable in decurions, where they have previously consulted the Emperor, and acted by his order; unless the tumult could not otherwise have been suppressed.
The Same, On Punishments, Book III. If anyone should make use of forged constitutions, without giving any authority for doing so, he will be forbidden the use of water and fire under the Cornelian Law.
Modestinus, On Punishments, Book III. The Divine Brothers stated in a Rescript that torture could be repeated. 1The Divine Pius stated in a Rescript that one who has made a confession implicating himself, shall not be tortured to obtain evidence against others.
The Same, On Punishments, Book III. The Governor should not, in order to obtain the favor of the people, discharge persons who have been condemned to be thrown to wild beasts. If, however, the culprits have strength or skill worthy of being used for the benefit of the Roman people, he should consult the Emperor. 1The Divine Severus and Antoninus stated in a Rescript, that it was not permitted to transfer persons who have been sentenced, from one province to another, without the consent of the Emperor.