The mother of a 12-year-old girl who was raped, tortured, and murdered delivered a strong message to the perpetrator responsible for her daughter’s death.
Dahbia Benkired, aged 27, has made history in France by receiving a whole-life sentence for the brutal murder of Lola Daviet. The young girl’s lifeless body was discovered in the entrance of her apartment building in Paris 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 addressed Benkired, whom she referred to as a “monster,” expressing her profound sorrow over the tragedy.
Delphine Daviet, Lola’s mother, emotionally testified in court after witnessing distressing images of her daughter’s body and receiving the coroner’s report. She fondly remembered Lola as a cheerful, loving, and helpful child with a strong personality. Delphine described their family as close-knit and attentive to each other.
Delphine recounted the tragic event that forever changed their lives, recalling how Lola returned home briefly before heading back to school. That evening, on October 14, 2022, the family was preparing to leave for Pas-de-Calais for the weekend but grew concerned when Lola failed to return home.
Lola encountered Benkired outside their apartment building, as described by Delphine in court, referring to the perpetrator as a “monster.” She questioned why Lola followed the assailant despite her warnings about strangers. Delphine emphasized the importance of shouting for help when in danger, expressing her regret at not being able to save Lola.
Upon contacting the authorities, the family was informed of the discovery of Lola’s mutilated body in a plastic container in the courtyard of their residence in northeastern Paris. Benkired, an Algerian immigrant with an expired student visa, had silenced Lola, leading to her tragic death.
The heinous nature of the crime has incited public outrage in France, prompting protests outside the courthouse. The Attorney General condemned Benkired for preying on Lola for personal gratification. The judge characterized Benkired’s actions as “true torture,” acknowledging the profound psychological impact on the victim and her family.
Following the sentencing, Delphine expressed belief in the judicial system, stating they had achieved justice. Lola’s brother declared that they had honored his sister’s memory and upheld the truth.