Jean-Claude Romand is a French impostor and murderer who pretended to be a medical doctor. He killed his family when he was about to be exposed.
Romand fooled his family and friends for 18 years; they thought he was a successful medical professional and researcher to World Health Organization. He managed to give an impression that he had researched arteriosclerosis and he had contacts with political figures.
In reality, he spent his days wandering and used free information services of the local WHO building. Periodically he left for a supposed work trip but only traveled to Geneva-Cointrin airport and spent a couple of days in a hotel room there, studying a travel guide for a country he was supposed to be in.
In January 9 1993 Romand killed his wife, both of his children, his parents and the family dog before he set their house alight and took overdose of barbiturates, intending to burn with his home. He was rescued and police soon figured out the truth.
Romand's trial begun June 25 1996. In July 6 1996 Romand was sentenced for life imprisonment.
French author Emmanuel Carrère entered into correspondence with imprisoned Romand to write a book L'Adversaire (Adversary) based on the case. Nicole Garcia directed a movie based on the book; actor Daniel Auteuil played the part of Romand.