In 1030, the first Norman foothold in the Mezzogiorno was created when Sergius IV of Naples gave the town and vicinity of Aversa as a county to Ranulf.
The following are the Counts of Aversa: After Rainulf I died in June 1045, a succession crisis developed.
With the assistance of Pandulf IV of Capua, however, Rainulf Trincanocte made his way to Aversa, built local support, and was duly elected as the Count of Aversa replacing the temporary appointment of Rodulf.
Richard Drengot, a cousin of Herman's, was then in a Melfitan prison for making war on Drogo.
Guaimar IV procured Richard's release and personally brought him to Aversa, where he was installed as regent.