After more than 20 years of investigation, a man was indicted and placed in pre-trial detention for the murder of a prostitute of Ghanaian origin in 2002 in Limoges. Confused by his DNA, the suspect confessed to the murder, marking the end of a case that seemed doomed to oblivion.
Brutal murder in 2002: a case unsolved for decades
On February 10, 2002, the bloodied body of a Ghanaian prostitute was found under the porch of a building in Limoges. The victim, stabbed several times in the breast, abdomen and genitals, lies in a pool of blood. Although eight genetic profiles were identified at the scene, the investigation is struggling to progress. After an initial closure of the case in 2006, the reopening in 2015 did not provide any more elements despite an identified suspect who denied the facts.
An unexpected twist thanks to DNA in 2024
On June 11, 2024, a twist occurred with the identification of a DNA match: the sperm found in a condom held by the victim corresponded to the genetic profile of an individual. This rapprochement led to the arrest of the accused on August 20, 2024. Placed in police custody, the man quickly confessed, explaining that he had acted under the influence of alcohol and cannabis, transferring his anger towards the new companion of his ex-partner.
A step forward in justice efforts on cold cases
This solved case demonstrates the importance of DNA technologies in long-term investigations. In March 2022, a national center dedicated to cold cases and serial crimes was created at the Nanterre judicial court, strengthening the means to resolve unsolved cases. This center brings together experienced magistrates and investigators, working with advanced technologies to elucidate complex cases left unanswered.
Although the Limoges case was resolved outside this structure, it illustrates the type of old crimes that this center aims to deal with, demonstrating a desire to leave no crime unpunished.
Source: The JDD
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