The trial of Cédric Jubilard, the 38-year-old artist accused of murdering his wife Delphine out of jealousy, began in France on Monday. In this case, there is no body, no witnesses, no admission of guilt, but there is huge public interest building theories.
Jubilard denies the murder charges. The case is built on circumstantial evidence.
Amateur detectives have set up numerous groups on social media where they exchange theories – much to the annoyance of the police and the missing woman’s loved ones.
These groups are like conversations in a bar, only with more participants, says psychoanalyst Patrick Avrahan, author of a book on society’s attitude to crime.
“Everyone builds a theory that suits them best,” he adds.
Lockdown heat due to the coronavirus pandemic. The morning of the 16th om, caving enthusiasts even descended on some abandoned mines that dot the region.
Delphine’s body was never found, but slowly they put together a case against her husband – and in mid 2021, Cedric was apprehended.
At his trial in the town of Albi, the prosecution will say that Cedric Jubilar had a motive to kill his wife because of a soon-to-be broken relationship.
The lawyers will bring up other topics: the strange acts Cedric committed that night; signs of a fight, including Delphine’s broken glasses; and neighbours who heard women screaming.
Cedric’s character will be the focus of attention: witnesses are expected to recount his threats to Delphine before her disappearance and his indifferent behaviour afterwards.
Two of Cedric’s acquaintances – a former cellmate and an ex-girlfriend – will repeat what they told the police: that Cedric confessed to the murder and told them where he hid the body.
But after a new search, the body was never found, and the defence is expected to question the veracity of these stories.
There is no direct evidence in Cédric Jubilar’s case that he disposed of his wife, other than the popular belief that he is a perfect criminal. He himself insists on his innocence.
The court will hear the case for four weeks. policemen in panda pyjamas and playing Game of Thrones on the phone the morning after his wife disappeared,” Montague continues.
So who is he – a brilliant liar, a lucky fool or an innocent poor thing?
The answer to that question must be found by a court of law.