The Supreme Court of Spain has confirmed a 14-year prison sentence for Jesús Predales, who was convicted of murdering Juana Canal, a case dating back to 2003. Canal disappeared from her home in Madrid on February 23, 2003, after reporting an attack to the police. Her remains were discovered in Ávila in 2019, leading to Predales’ arrest 16 years after her disappearance.

The court dismissed Predales’ argument that the trial exceeded the instruction deadlines after the case was reopened, stating that there were no grounds to invalidate the conviction on such claims. Additionally, the judges rejected his request for a reduced sentence based on delays in the judicial process. This ruling brings closure to a long and tragic case that haunted Canal's family and reflects the complexities of the Spanish judicial system.

This decision from the Supreme Court not only serves as a legal resolution but also highlights issues surrounding domestic violence and the difficulties in prosecuting cases that are cold for many years. The case of Juana Canal may prompt discussions on reforms needed within the legal framework to support victims more effectively and ensure that justice is served without undue delays, which have been a significant concern in many similar cases throughout Spain.