Lyhanna: lawyer for murdered French girl’s family calls for more justice system funding

The murder of 11-year-old Lyhanna in France has sparked protests and a political debate over the state's handling of sexual violence against children. Her family's lawyer, François Roujou de Boubée, argues that increased funding for the justice system is crucial to prevent such tragedies. The case highlights a failure to act on previous allegations against the suspect, Jérôme Barella, who had been reported multiple times for alleged sexual offenses against girls but was not questioned by police. Lyhanna disappeared on May 29th and her body was found a week later. The mother of another alleged victim plans to sue the state and justice minister for inaction. The incident has brought the issue to the forefront of political discussions ahead of the presidential election, with calls for systemic reform and increased resources for the justice system.

The murder of 11-year-old Lyhanna in southwestern France has sparked nationwide protests and intensified pressure on the French government. The suspect, Jérome Barella, had been reported to police last August for alleged sexual abuse of another child, with medical evidence confirming the abuse. Despite the complaint, Barella was not questioned by investigators for nine months. Lyhanna's body was discovered last Thursday, six days after she was last seen. Barella, the father of a friend of Lyhanna, was arrested and has denied involvement in her death, though he admitted driving her to a swimming pool. Protesters are demanding accountability from the government, with many calling for the resignation of Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin.