Patricia Ramírez, the mother of Gabriel Cruz, who was murdered by Ana Julia Quezada in 2018, has once again taken to the public stage to denounce a series of alarming threats and institutional failures that have left her feeling vulnerable and unprotected. During a press conference held on May 7, 2025, in Almería, Ramírez expressed her fears about her safety after receiving death threats from Quezada, who is currently serving a life sentence in the Brieva prison in Ávila.
Ramírez's concerns stem from a year of continuous information that she has received regarding alleged irregularities within the prison, including Quezada's possession of mobile phones that she reportedly uses to film a documentary about her life. "I have been informed that Ana Julia has mobile phones. There are people recording inside, sexual videos, recordings for a documentary, and people moving money for it," Ramírez explained, highlighting the severity of the situation.
According to Ramírez, Quezada has been heard saying that she wants to kill her, a chilling revelation that has amplified her fears. "I entered alarm when she expressed that she wants to take revenge on me. I have sources that confirm this information," she stated, visibly shaken.
In her address, Ramírez criticized the lack of institutional response to her pleas for help. Despite her repeated attempts to alert authorities, she feels that no effective action has been taken to ensure her safety. "I can't take it anymore. I am denouncing it and I am not even called to ask me. No one attends to me, no one protects me, no one acts," she lamented.
The situation has grown more complicated with revelations that two prison employees are under investigation for allegedly providing Quezada with mobile phones in exchange for sexual favors. These phones are believed to have been used by Quezada to record segments for the documentary, which Ramírez vehemently opposes. "The social pressure managed to halt the project, but it angered Ana Julia, which is why I fear for my life," she said.
Ramírez's fight for justice has also highlighted broader issues regarding the treatment of victims in the justice system. She expressed frustration over the media's portrayal of criminals like Quezada, questioning, "What is the cost of giving so much fame to this murderer? To sell our bitterness as a spectacle?" Her words reflect a deep sense of injustice and a call for a reevaluation of how victims are treated in the wake of such tragedies.
Furthermore, Ramírez has been receiving anonymous calls, which she has reported to the Civil Guard. However, she feels that these threats have not been taken seriously, leaving her in a state of constant fear. "I have been informed that my personal data has reached one of the officials involved in the investigation. If this is how victims are protected, then God help me," she remarked.
In her press conference, Ramírez also demanded that the government take decisive action to ensure the protection of victims and their families. "I appeal for protection for victims, to speak about what matters, the non-compliance with these protection regulations. We must safeguard ourselves so that we are not harmed. I just want to ask for protection and that no other victims have to go through this again," she urged.
Despite the emotional toll and the challenges she faces, Ramírez remains determined to fight for justice not just for herself, but for all victims of violent crime. "I hope that we can recognize that things have been done wrong so far. I will not stop saying what I have to say, no matter who it affects," she concluded, standing strong amidst the turmoil.
As the investigation into Quezada's activities continues, many are left to wonder how such a situation could arise within the prison system and what measures will be taken to prevent further victimization of those already suffering. Ramírez's story serves as a powerful reminder of the need for systemic changes in how victims are treated and protected in the judicial process.
In light of these events, the public and authorities alike are called to reflect on the importance of safeguarding victims' rights and ensuring that justice is not only served but also perceived as fair and just by those who have endured unimaginable loss.
