Franco was born in the town of Grotti near Siena, Italy. He grew to be a lazy, nasty-tempered teenager who would not obey anyone. When his father died, Franco became worse than ever. He spent all his time and all his money in sinful acts and in gambling. Then he got into serious trouble, and to avoid being brought to trial on a murder charge, he joined up with a band of raiders.
In the company of these outlaws, Franco became a first-class criminal. He lived so wickedly that by the time half his life was over, he had ruined his health.