France mourns 11‑year‑old Lyhanna after murder sparks child‑protection reforms

In Fleurance, southern France, 11‑year‑old Lyhanna was found dead after disappearing on 29 May. Police identified 41‑year‑old Jerome B. as the prime suspect; he had previously been investigated for sexual abuse of children but was not detained. Multiple victims have since reported alleged crimes by Jerome B., and his brother Yannick B. has been charged in separate rape investigations.

The murder prompted national outrage. Hundreds attended Lyhanna’s funeral, while local officials lowered flags in mourning. President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged serious procedural failures, and Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin apologized to the family, describing the handling of the case as "infuriating." In response, the French government drafted a new child‑protection law, with the cabinet set to discuss it on 15 July and proposals to raise the maximum sentence for repeat child rapists from 20 years to life imprisonment.