A convicted murderer who sexually assaulted and tortured a young girl she did not know before murdering her, made a disturbing confession during her court appearance.
Dahbia Benkired, aged 27, has been given a life sentence without the possibility of parole, marking the first time a woman in France has received such a severe penalty, for the brutal killing of Lola Daviet. After killing Lola, Benkired placed her body in a suitcase and left it in the lobby of the building where the victim resided with her family in 2022. Benkired’s shocking admission in court has captivated France, culminating in the rare life sentence.
During the trial, Lola’s mother, Delphine, recounted how her daughter returned home for a meal on October 14, 2022, before leaving again. Delphine vividly remembered her last words to Lola, expressing her love before their farewell.
Approaching Lola outside the Paris apartment complex where the victim lived, Benkired had a tumultuous morning that led her to ask Lola for help with two suitcases. Despite initial reluctance from Lola due to caution about helping strangers, she eventually agreed. Benkired lured Lola into an apartment, where she subjected her to a harrowing hour and a half of sexual assault and torture before suffocating her.
Benkired’s chilling courtroom admission included remarks such as seeking revenge on the vulnerable victim and justifying the murder after the assault.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Lola’s mother emphasized the importance of caution and speaking out in dangerous situations. She expressed her eternal grief over her inability to protect Lola.
The Attorney General of France described Benkired, an Algerian immigrant who had overstayed her student visa, as preying on the victim for personal gratification. The judge characterized Benkired’s actions as extreme torture during the sentencing.
Following the verdict, Lola’s family expressed relief at the justice served, believing that the memory of their beloved sister had been honored and the truth revealed.