Amandine’s Trial: Mother Sentenced to Life Imprisonment and Stepfather to 20 Years

The fifth day of the trial concerning the tragic death of Amandine, 13, ended with severe verdicts. The mother, Sandrine P., and her partner, Jean-Michel C., were tried by the Hérault Assize Court for letting the teenager starve to death under harrowing conditions.

Mother’s Sentence: Life Imprisonment

On Thursday, the court sentenced Sandrine P. to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years. Accused of inflicting “acts of torture or barbarity resulting in death,” the mother admitted during the hearings to some forms of abuse, such as slapping and hair-pulling. However, she continued to deny starving her daughter, despite the fact that Amandine weighed only 28 kg at the time of her death.

Stepfather’s Role

The stepfather, Jean-Michel C., was also found guilty of failing to protect the teenager. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison, a harsher punishment than the 18 years requested by the prosecution. During his closing argument, the prosecutor described Jean-Michel C. as a “collaborator” in what he called a “family dictatorship,” condemning his inaction in the face of Amandine’s suffering.

A Trial Marked by Chilling Testimonies

The prosecutor painted a grim picture of a household rife with oppression and inhumane treatment. From a young age, Amandine allegedly endured punches, kicks, hair-pulling, and constant humiliation. Testimonies revealed she was forced into painful positions and subjected to degrading conditions, including isolation and surveillance through cameras.

Although Sandrine P. claimed she had been a victim of abuse in her own childhood, the prosecutor disputed these claims, pointing to inconsistencies and a lack of evidence.

A Tense Conclusion to the Hearing

After several hours of deliberation, the jury delivered their verdict in a packed courtroom filled with palpable tension. The life sentence for Sandrine P. and the 20-year sentence for Jean-Michel C. bring this harrowing trial to a close, underscoring the severity of their actions.

A Case That Evokes Emotion and Outrage

The case of Amandine has deeply moved public opinion, highlighting the need for vigilance against domestic violence. The young girl had even warned a school supervisor that she “was going to die,” a cry for help that went unanswered. This trial stands as a stark reminder of society’s failure to protect a vulnerable child.