President of the Prosecutors' Conference calls for reform in investigations into sexual abuse of minors

Paris – 06/23/2026: In view of the current discussions on the Lyhanna case, Frédéric Chevallier, president of the French conference of prosecutors, emphasized in an interview with Franceinfo the need to fundamentally revise the investigation methods for sexual violence crimes against minors. He expressed concern about the current conditions in which these investigations take place, calling for an adjustment that is fairer to the people involved. Chevallier spoke about the urgency of a collective reflection from which the tragic Lyhanna case must emerge, in order to better manage criminal proceedings.

According to him, the protection of victims and sensitivity in handling these investigations represent a particular challenge. Prosecutors are called upon to reconcile the principles of the rule of law with the psychological well-being of the victims. He criticized that current procedures often do not adequately meet the needs of minor victims and can sometimes become an additional burden for them.

Chevallier highlighted that it is not only about adapting procedural methods but also about an institutional realignment. This is accompanied by better training for investigators on the specific needs of these cases and closer collaboration with social and psychological experts. He advocated for a multidisciplinary approach to better protect victims and improve the ascertainment of crimes.

The Lyhanna case has triggered a broad debate in France on how justice handles issues of child protection. For some time, the public and specialists have been calling for a reform of criminal procedures to increase sensitivity and effectiveness in dealing with sexual crimes against minors. Chevallier’s statement is seen as a step in this direction.

The president of the conference of prosecutors also warned against the risks of mistaken public expectations, which demand quick results in investigations without considering the complex psychological and legal dimensions. A calm and conscientious approach is indispensable to ensure both the rule of law and adequate protection of victims.

These demands are set within a context of growing social awareness on the issue of violence against children and adolescents. Justice is increasingly under pressure to ensure procedures that are both effective and humane. The debate initiated by Chevallier could lead to concrete reform steps in the coming months.

Overall, the appeal from the president of the prosecutors’ conference suggests a public awareness of the difficulties in dealing criminally with violence against minors. It calls for prioritizing the protection of victims and structuring investigations so that they are both effective and sensitive to the people involved.