COMMISSARIO. – This name designates one of the senior officials of the S. Congregation of the S. Uffizio, who, assisted by two aides (“first” and “second companion”), is chiefly responsible for conducting the preliminary investigation of the criminal proceedings to be adjudicated by the Congregation. Both the c. and the two companions are chosen from among the religious of the Order of Preachers.
The institution derives from the ancient tribunals of the Inquisition. Pope Pius V was c. of the S. Uffizio from 1551 to 1556 (Pastor, VIII, p. 34).
The name c. is also used to designate the members of any commission (v. COMMISSIONI PONTIFICE).