Vladimir Retunsky, known as the “Povorino maniac,” murdered eight girls between 1990 and 1996 in the Voronezh region of Russia. Despite his horrific crimes, Retunsky was released from prison in 2012, only to be incarcerated again for theft. He was later paroled and now lives freely in his hometown of Povorino.

Retunsky’s case has sparked outrage and fear among the residents of Povorino. The details of his crimes are gruesome: he targeted young women, often offering them rides in his ZIL truck before raping and murdering them.

The first murder took place in June 1990, when 20-year-old Ekaterina disappeared after hitchhiking. Her body was found seven years later. Over the next six years, Retunsky continued his killing spree, preying on young girls, many of whom were teenagers.

Law enforcement struggled to identify the serial killer, initially believing the girls had simply run away. However, after the third body was discovered, investigators began to suspect a serial killer was at work.

The investigation gained momentum when a Rottweiler puppy, which belonged to one of Retunsky’s last victims, was traced back to his stepson. This led to Retunsky’s arrest in February 1997.

Retunsky initially confessed to the murders, even claiming to have committed dozens more across the country. However, he later recanted his confession and maintained his innocence.

Despite the evidence against him, Retunsky received a relatively lenient sentence of 15 years in prison, due to the moratorium on the death penalty in Russia. After his release, he returned to Povorino, where he lives a quiet life, largely avoiding his neighbors.

His presence in the town has caused considerable distress, with some residents throwing stones at his windows. Retunsky claims he lives on a small pension and only leaves his home when necessary.

In 2015, Retunsky appeared on a television show, denying his involvement in the murders. Since then, he has remained largely silent, refusing to speak to the media.

The Povorino case serves as a chilling reminder of the lasting impact of violent crime on communities and the challenges of reintegrating offenders back into society.