Jorge Ignacio PJ, alleged serial killer, faces verdict after trials for three completed murders: Arlene Ramos, Lady Marcela Vargas, and Marta Calvo, along with investigations into seven other women. The accused reportedly used a weapon involving high-purity rock cocaine, a toxin found in counterfeit pills from Colombia and other origins. He previously received two sentences for drug trafficking, and prosecutors allege sexual violence from him when victims declined his advances, as objects were inserted without consent.
The question remains whether Jorge Ignacio PJ also fits the profile of a psychopath. Psychopathy is a personality pattern discussed in forensic psychology and is not classified as a mental illness in major diagnostic manuals. Yet many experts link psychopathic traits with criminal behavior. Robert Hare, a Canadian psychologist and professor emeritus at the University of British Columbia, is widely recognized for his work on psychopathy and the PCL-R assessment, a scale used to rate psychopathic traits.
While Hare’s framework is influential, researchers in criminal psychology caution against overreliance on a single diagnostic lens. Some scholars note that descriptions of psychopathy can be complex and contested, especially in court proceedings where forensic conclusions hinge on limited evidence. In Spain, criminologist Vicente Garrido, a leading authority on criminal psychology, has developed profiles of serial offenders that emphasize overt psychopathic features. A formal criminological report in this case suggested strong psychopathic indicators; however, the presiding magistrate noted that this kind of analysis was not routinely admitted as decisive proof in court and is typically used by forensic specialists to inform evaluations of mental state and responsibility.
The trial material presents facts that align with several traits associated with this classification.
Lack of empathy
Empathy involves understanding others and imagining oneself in their position. In this context, the individual sometimes demonstrates cognitive empathy yet appears emotionally detached. Forensic experts from Valencia’s Institute of Mental Health collected this feature in their psychiatric report, while victims described a chilling calm during the approach phase. At times he was seen engaging in social behavior that seemed purposeful, with routines that included organizing gatherings and offering drinks before events that led toward harm. In prison, his conduct was described as orderly and respectful toward authority figures, though not toward the charges themselves.
Egocentrism and narcissism
Reports from investigators highlight a sense of superiority and a habit of centering the spotlight on himself. The notes paint a portrait of charismatic self-assuredness, with lectures, assertive testimony, and a habit of drafting lengthy communications to his legal counsel. When questions about consent arose, his reply suggested a dismissive attitude toward ordinary boundaries. This could help explain why certain actions seemed planned and persistent, even in the face of escalating risk and repeated encounters with the police.
Superficial charm
There was a surface warmth in interactions with potential victims, a charm that created trust at brief meetings or messages. This demeanor appeared to ease access to individuals and to lower defenses before the criminal acts.
Emotional emptiness
During the trial, attempts to evoke emotion sometimes came across as forced or hollow. In moments that would typically be emotionally charged for many people, his responses were measured or disengaged. This pattern appeared even when confronted with the pain and grief of victims’ families.
Antisocial and criminal behavior
Prior to these charges, the defendant held two convictions for drug trafficking, with documented arrests for possessing large quantities of cocaine and related offenses. Additional alleged offenses include prior charges in different jurisdictions and confrontations with security personnel. The pattern of behavior extends beyond isolated incidents and reflects a long-standing history of illegal activity.
Difficulty learning from experience
Investigators note the repetition of similar conduct across multiple victims, suggesting a lack of adaptive learning from past events. In the period leading up to Marta Calvo’s death, there were indications of renewed attempts to repeat the same pattern, which may explain repeated legal actions and ongoing surveillance.
Impulsiveness
Some testimonies describe a volatile temperament, with moments of rapid escalation and gestures that appeared uncontrolled in a courtroom setting. Counsel often had to manage his abrupt reactions and intense energy during proceedings.
Pathological lying
The defendant has provided inconsistent statements on various aspects of the offenses, including contradicting accounts about whereabouts and involvement. In several instances, he acknowledged or denied elements that conflicted with other evidence, including DNA findings left under victims’ nails and other corroborating material.
Manipulative conduct
The case includes descriptions of calculated manipulation aimed at influencing authorities and witnesses. Detailing the timing and method of interactions, forensic reports outline deliberate strategies to control the narrative from the moment of initial contact through the investigation.
Susceptibility to boredom
Observers note a tendency to seek novelty and stimulation, sometimes translating into a rapid pace of future offenses. In the months preceding Marta Calvo’s death, there was an uptick in attempts to create new situations that could attract victims.
Parasite lifestyle
There is little evidence of sustained employment beyond alleged drug trafficking activity. Some expenses have reportedly been covered through family support, highlighting financial dependence rather than independent livelihood.
Cruelty and lack of remorse
A lack of remorse appears in statements toward victims and their families, with some accounts describing cold or threatening stares. In certain moments, witnesses observed a detachment from the human consequences of the acts described.
A lack of stable intimate relationships
The accused acknowledged difficulty maintaining non-commercial relationships, often relying on short-term arrangements. One relationship described as an affair resulted in pregnancy, though openness about the event took years to emerge, underscoring ongoing complexities in relational dynamics.