Henryk R., known as “Łomiarz” (the Crowbar Man), has been released from a Polish prison after serving time for attacks on nearly 30 women, five of whom died.
The ‘Łomiarz’ Attacks
Henryk R. primarily targeted elderly women, often over 60 years old. His attacks escalated in brutality, using a blunt metal tool – earning him the nickname “Łomiarz,” though he often used a crowbar instead of a crowbar.
The peak of his violence occurred on June 14, 1993, when he attacked five women in a single day, resulting in two fatalities. In total, he assaulted 29 women, aged 22 to 88, with five ultimately dying from their injuries. Many survivors suffered severe, long-lasting trauma.
Repeated Incarceration and Release
“Łomiarz” was initially arrested in September 1993 and sentenced to 25 years, later reduced to 15 on appeal due to insufficient evidence linking him to all attacks. He was released twice before, in 2008 and 2016, only to re-offend each time.
Following his 2008 release, he was re-imprisoned in 2009 for another assault on a woman in Piaseczno, receiving a seven-year sentence. After his 2016 release, he immediately attacked a 71-year-old woman in Łowicz, resulting in a ten-year sentence which has now concluded.
Monitoring and Security Measures
Despite the Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek stating that Henryk R. did not qualify for placement in a specialized center for antisocial behavior, authorities are implementing monitoring measures. His attacks were deemed motivated by robbery, not sexual assault, though he reportedly expressed hatred towards women during one arrest.
Prior to his release on Tuesday, April 28th, a transmitter was attached to “Łomiarz.” He also received a portable recorder, functioning like a mobile phone, allowing constant monitoring by electronic surveillance operators. Any tampering with the device will trigger an immediate response.
24-Hour Surveillance and Information Sharing
Authorities will monitor “Łomiarz’s” movements throughout Poland, as he is free to travel anywhere. Any violations, such as low battery, attempts to cut or destroy the device, will automatically alert the monitoring center, prompting immediate intervention.
All information, including any police deployments or violation alerts, will be automatically reported in writing to the court and probation officer. Police can request real-time location information through the monitoring center.
Future Plans and Police Response
Unofficial reports indicate “Łomiarz” plans to reside in Warsaw. He grew up in a poor district of Konstancin-Jeziorna and was reportedly bullied as a child due to a distinctive facial feature, potentially contributing to his later behavior.
The National Police Headquarters confirmed they have operational knowledge of the situation and will take preventative measures. However, they have not disclosed specific details, stating that no specific tasks have been assigned by the court.
