Thousands march for French schoolgirl murdered after police failed to question suspect
Summary
Thousands of people in France held a silent march to mourn an 11-year-old girl named Lyhanna, who was murdered after police failed to properly question a suspect with a history of abuse allegations. The case has sparked national anger and debates about serious problems in the French justice system.Key Facts
- Lyhanna, an 11-year-old girl, was last seen in the village of Fleurance, southwest France, before being found dead a week later.
- The suspected killer, Jérôme Barella, had previous allegations of child sexual abuse dating back to 2017.
- Police delayed questioning Barella despite evidence and reports suggesting abuse.
- The prosecutor’s office took weeks to assign officers and never questioned Barella before Lyhanna’s disappearance.
- Additional accusations against Barella include inappropriate behavior with students and rape allegations dismissed due to lack of evidence.
- French President Emmanuel Macron called the failure “unacceptable” and said an official investigation is needed.
- Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin admitted the legal system broke down and that police have a large backlog of complaints, including many about sexual abuse.
- The silent march in Fleurance was led by Lyhanna’s parents and many participants wore white shirts with her smiling portrait.
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