On October 17, 2023, the Paris Assize Court began hearing the case of Dahbia Benkired, a 27-year-old Algerian woman accused of the murder, rape, and torture of 12-year-old Lola Daviet. Lola’s body was discovered in a suitcase on October 14, 2022, in the 19th arrondissement of Paris.
Key Events in the Lola Murder Trial
During the proceedings, the court heard various testimonies about Benkired’s life and the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Dahbia Benkired’s Background
- Benkired was living under an obligation to leave France at the time of the crime.
- She had a CAP (Certificate of Professional Aptitude) in hospitality and was unemployed.
- Prior to the incident, Benkired had been smoking nearly 20 joints of cannabis daily.
The Day of the Crime
On the day of Lola’s murder, Benkired had a confrontation with Lola’s mother regarding access to the building where she lived. This dispute reportedly triggered her actions against Lola.
Benkired was noted to have walked through Paris before encountering Lola, who was returning home from school. Once inside the apartment, she allegedly subjected Lola to extreme violence over a period of 1 hour and 37 minutes, culminating in the child’s death.
Details of the Attack
Reports indicate that Benkired used a knife during the attack, resulting in severe injuries to Lola. After the attack, she placed Lola’s body in a suitcase and attempted to conceal it by moving between Paris and nearby suburbs.
Trial Proceedings
As the trial unfolds, significant focus has been placed on Benkired’s mental state, experiences of abuse during her childhood, and the various influences in her life. She has previously indicated feeling a sense of freedom in France compared to her life in Algeria.
During the trial, Benkired expressed regret for her actions, stating, “It’s horrible what I did, and I regret it.” However, she has contested certain aspects of the allegations, including the nature of the sexual violence committed against Lola.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
The trial has attracted significant media attention, with many following the live coverage provided by El-Balad. The events surrounding Lola’s death have not only sparked public outrage but have also ignited political debates regarding issues of safety and youth welfare in France.
Key Takeaways
- The trial of Dahbia Benkired represents a critical moment for justice in the case of Lola Daviet.
- Justice officials are focusing on both the details surrounding the crime and the psychological profile of the accused.
- Public interest remains high, with ongoing discussions about broader implications for societal safety.
