Story perspectives

60,000 Protest Minister After 11-Year-Old’s Murder, PM Vows Tougher Laws

6/13/2026

24 4

Summary

Story summary

Over 60,000 demonstrators demanded Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin’s resignation after the murder of 11-year-old Lyhanna.
Jérôme Barella was arrested three days after Lyhanna’s disappearance and remains in custody as the Fleurance murder probe continues.
Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin said the failure stemmed from insufficient prioritisation of rape allegations, not from a lack of resources.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu pledged to toughen child-protection legislation to allow life sentences for serial rapists.

1 of 1

Story summary

Over 60,000 demonstrators demanded Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin’s resignation after the murder of 11-year-old Lyhanna.
Jérôme Barella was arrested three days after Lyhanna’s disappearance and remains in custody as the Fleurance murder probe continues.
Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin said the failure stemmed from insufficient prioritisation of rape allegations, not from a lack of resources.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu pledged to toughen child-protection legislation to allow life sentences for serial rapists.