On a Saturday soon, July 22, the case surrounding CastellonJoaquin Ferrandiz Ventura, known by the initials JFV, moves into a new chapter as he nears release after serving a lengthy sentence. He was convicted of murdering five women across a span that reached 69 years of possible imprisonment. The victims named in the 1990s were Sonia Rubio, Natalia Archelós, Mercedes Vélez, Francisca Salas, and Amelia Sandra García. The gravity of these crimes casts a shadow that remains visible in public memory and law enforcement records alike.
When the time behind bars ends, Ferrándiz speaks of a personal aim: to become a normal person who can rebuild his life. This perspective was conveyed by Carmen Balfagón, a professor from the Madrid School of Criminology who had met him during his incarceration. Audio excerpts from a conversation with Balfagón aired this week on the RTVE program Hablado Claro, offering a glimpse into Ferrándiz’s mindset as he contemplates life beyond prison walls.
Despite not undergoing any rapist-specific therapy while imprisoned, Ferrándiz has outlined a plan to rejoin society. Reports from Mediterranean and Prensa Ibérica indicate he intends to live abroad to avoid public recognition. To date, no photographs have emerged showing Ferrándiz during the 25 years of his incarceration, keeping his appearance largely unknown to the public eye.
His name remains tied to Spain’s darkest crimes, and there appears to be a strong desire to escape the notoriety by moving to another country where his identity wouldn’t be as closely associated with the murders. The crimes occurred in the province of Castellón between 1995 and 1996. The social response to his potential release has been overwhelmingly hostile and judgmental, reflecting the severity of the offenses and the pain of the victims’ families.
A priori, a return to Castellón is unlikely
Initial indications suggest Ferrándiz is unlikely to return to Castellón, even though the option exists. The sentence issued in late 1999 prohibits contact with certain towns in the region, including Vila-real, Vibration, Benicàssim, and Castello, with no explicit statements about other municipalities in Castellón province. This restriction shapes where Ferrándiz could reside if he remains within the country after release.
Valdepeñas, a town about 47 kilometers from the prison, has been mentioned as a possible temporary destination before any long-term relocation abroad. In that setting, Ferrándiz would have access to supervised permits under the watch of prison authorities and the involvement of staff from the local church, who sometimes provide oversight during transitional periods.
Observations about conduct within the prison system
Historical reporting indicates Ferrándiz’s behavior in custody has been described by observers as cooperative and articulate, with an ability to engage constructively with both fellow inmates and prison staff. Yet, perceptions of his character remain controversial given the severity of the crimes attributed to him. The duality of being seen as capable and dangerous underscores the ongoing debate about rehabilitation and the possibility of a normal life after punishment.