France Orders Nationwide Review of Violence Allegations Against Minors
French Justice System Under Scrutiny After Death of 11-Year-Old Girl
Background of the Case
PARIS, June 8 (Reuters) - French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Monday he had told public prosecutors to review 70,000 ongoing allegations of violence against minors, after an outcry over the death an 11-year-old girl.
Public Outrage and Official Response
• The girl's death caused outrage after authorities said they had not acted on previous child rape allegations against the main suspect.
• The case marked a "terrible failure from the state, and of the justice system," Darmanin said.
Immediate Actions Ordered
• Prosecutors had to review all formal complaints filed with authorities across the country by July 14 as "an absolute priority," he added.
Political and Legal Repercussions
• Asked if he would resign, Darmanin said: "If any shortcomings are identified, I will take responsibility and propose disciplinary actions ranging from a reprimand to dismissal."
• Lawmakers across the political spectrum said the case highlighted the justice system's failure to protect women and children from sexual violence.
(Reporting by Hugo Lhomedet; Editing by Dominique Vidalon and Andrew Heavens)
