Josef Fritzl, the Austrian man who shocked the world by imprisoning and abusing his daughter for 24 years, might soon be allowed to leave his prison cell for short supervised outings.
His lawyer has filed a request for him to participate in a “social training” program — designed to help long-term inmates regain everyday skills like ordering coffee or using a phone.
Lawyer Pushes for Fritzl’s Day Visits as Part of Reintegration Plan
Fritzl’s lawyer, Astrid Wagner, says that at 90 years old, her client needs these outings to practice basic tasks and reintegrate into society.
She explains that Fritzl struggles with dementia medication and may no longer fully understand the reasons behind his imprisonment.
Wagner argues that continuing to keep him confined without chances for supervised day trips could violate his human rights.
If approved, Fritzl could be seen in public for the first time in more than ten years, starting with supervised coffee visits to a café near the prison in Krems, Austria, accompanied by a psychologist.
Eventually, the plan could expand to longer day visits, possibly including trips to Vienna.
Public Outrage and Concerns Over Fritzl’s Release
The idea of Fritzl walking freely — even temporarily — has sparked anger and disbelief across Austria.
Many remember his horrific crimes: locking his daughter Elisabeth in a hidden cellar for decades, repeatedly raping her, and fathering seven children, one of whom died due to neglect.
Veteran crime journalist Michael Koch reminded the public that Fritzl’s abuse was far more than just imprisonment — it was a horrific reign of terror that left deep scars on his victims.
Critics worry that these supervised outings could pave the way for his eventual full release, something Fritzl’s lawyer has supported in the past.
Disturbing Delusions Reveal Fritzl’s Mental State
Fritzl’s lawyer has also revealed some unsettling details about his mental state.
He reportedly believes he is friends with former US President Donald Trump, thinking that Trump sends him secret hand signals during televised press conferences.
Fritzl also claims that applause during Austrian folk music shows is actually applause for him from grateful citizens.
Furthermore, Fritzl believes the Austrian Chancellor has asked him to “look after the children” in Austria — a sign, according to Wagner, that he urgently needs special therapy.
Fritzl’s Strange Desire for a House with a Cellar
Despite being moved from a high-security psychiatric hospital to a standard prison, Fritzl reportedly insists that when he leaves prison, he wants to live in a house with a cellar.
He claims he needs the cellar to store the many files and folders he’s collected over the years — an alarming request given his past crimes.
His lawyer says Fritzl may not fully grasp how inappropriate or disturbing this demand is, noting that he is old and frail, soon turning 90.
Wagner believes it’s time for Fritzl to be released.
Fritzl’s Fantasy of a Hero’s Welcome
Wagner also shared that Fritzl imagines walking out of prison to cheers and people eager to shake his hand.
She stresses that this is a fantasy and that Fritzl does not seem to understand how the public truly feels about him.
Despite these delusions, Fritzl is reportedly in fairly good physical health for his age.
When asked about his upcoming birthday, his lawyer said he simply wants to grow old — but with the hope of someday leaving prison behind.