The mother of a 12-year-old girl who was raped, tortured, and murdered delivered a powerful message to the perpetrator responsible for her daughter’s death. Dahbia Benkired, aged 27, has made history in France by receiving a life imprisonment sentence for the brutal killing of Lola Daviet. Lola’s lifeless body was discovered in the entrance of her Paris apartment building in 2022. Benkired abducted Lola, subjected her to sexual assault, and then fatally wounded her with a box cutter and scissors. Lola’s grieving mother expressed her sentiments towards Benkired, whom she referred to as a “monster,” during the trial.
Delphine Daviet, Lola’s mother, presented a poignant testimony in court following the distressing images of her daughter’s mutilated body and the coroner’s report. Delphine fondly reminisced about Lola’s cheerful and caring nature, highlighting her strong personality. She described their close-knit family dynamic, emphasizing their attentiveness to each other.
Delphine recounted the tragic events of the day that forever altered their lives. She narrated how Lola returned home for a meal before heading back to school, bidding her daughter farewell. Concern arose when Lola failed to return home that evening, delaying their planned trip to Pas-de-Calais, where they typically spent weekends near the seaside.
Lola encountered Benkired outside their apartment building, leading to a tragic sequence of events. Delphine lamented the encounter, labeling the perpetrator as a “monster,” and questioned why Lola followed her. She stressed the importance of caution around strangers to her children, expressing her inability to save Lola and the enduring pain in her heart.
Upon contacting the authorities, the family was informed of the discovery of Lola’s body, which was found in a plastic container within their residence’s courtyard in northeastern Paris. The court revealed Benkired, an Algerian immigrant with an expired student visa, had asphyxiated Lola by taping her mouth shut.
This distressing case has sparked outrage in France, prompting protests outside the courthouse. The Attorney General condemned Benkired for preying on Lola for personal gratification and sexual desires. The judge characterized Benkired’s actions as severe torture, considering the profound psychological impact on the victim and her family.
Following the sentencing, Delphine expressed belief in the justice system, stating that they had achieved justice for Lola. Lola’s brother affirmed that they had honored his sister’s memory and upheld the truth.