The alleged murder of 11-year-old Liana is morally devastating France, whose body was likely found in an abandoned silo in a rural area. Identification is still required, however the evidence, given that the clothes worn are identical to Liana’s, overwhelmingly suggests it is the missing girl. A 41-year-old man has been arrested, who is reportedly the father of her friend. The man denies the charges of kidnapping and murder, although the forensic examination will reveal the cause of death. The 41-year-old already faces allegations of sexual abuse and harassment of minors. Reports indicate there was no thorough investigation or prosecution, which is the main reason for the anger directed at the Police and Justice system in the country.
Read: France: Worst fears confirmed – 11-year-old missing for days found dead
France: Not one or two, but six cases
The 41-year-old was involved in six cases, apparently superficially handled, once his name and photograph emerged. In fact, less than nine months ago, a rape charge was reportedly filed for another 10-year-old girl, but the case was “frozen”. He allegedly threatened the 10-year-old’s family that he would commit suicide to prevent them from filing charges.
According to evidence from the investigation, the 41-year-old reportedly approached underage girls primarily through social contact with his daughter, with testimonies indicating he invited them to his home and gained their trust. Little Liana had reportedly previously expressed concern to her parents about his behavior, resulting in him being banned from contact with her.
He continued approaching her persistently
However, despite the ban, the man reportedly continued to approach her persistently, waiting for her outside school every day and attempting to isolate her under various pretenses. The last time the child was seen was when she got into his car under the pretext of being taken to a swimming pool, which was not operating that day. Crucial evidence in the investigation includes video footage and eyewitness testimonies that reportedly confirm the minor boarding the 41-year-old’s vehicle. The body was later found at an isolated location on a rural property that the accused knew, having worked there in the past.
The case has triggered intense political and social confrontation in France, with reports of serious failures by the Police and Justice system, as previous complaints had not been handled with the required severity. Indeed, according to the same information, there were incidents where victims’ relatives repeatedly tried to mobilize authorities without success. According to ERT, the Justice Minister reportedly publicly admitted “serious system failure,” announcing a meeting with prosecutorial authorities to review procedures for handling child abuse cases. The case has also opened discussion about possible systemic weaknesses and social prejudices that may have affected how previous complaints were handled.
French public opinion remains shocked, as the case raises questions about how a person who reportedly had already been accused of serious crimes against minors remained free, while the possibility of other victims is now being examined.
