Auch magistrates denounce 'popular vendetta' fueled by political speech

Judicial personnel at the Auch tribunal have adopted a motion denouncing a "popular vendetta" they say is encouraged by "uninhibited political discourse" from "political figures at the highest level of responsibility." The motion, voted on June 8, confirms a report by Libération and expresses concern over public distrust in the magistracy.

This distrust, the signatories stated, has already led to consequences including insults and death threats directed at the public prosecutor. They also noted "discourses from certain litigants in court." The Auch tribunal staff specifically pointed to "uninhibited political discourse" from "political figures at the highest level of responsibility" as the driver of this "popular vendetta."

The statements reference remarks made by Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin, who last week criticized "overwhelming and unacceptable dysfunctions within state services" and suggested sanctions against magistrates if shortcomings were found. President Emmanuel Macron also commented on June 7, stating, "It is clear that there is a dysfunction and it is unacceptable," while dismissing arguments about insufficient judicial resources.

The Auch tribunal staff also highlighted their demanding workload, reporting 10,000 complaints in 2025 with only "three public prosecutors for a population of 192,000 inhabitants." The motion began by extending thoughts to Lyhanna's family and friends, expressing solidarity with their pain. The assembly affirmed its "full and entire support to the Public Prosecutor and, more broadly, to the Auch prosecutor's office, which remains steadfastly committed to defending the values that found our Republic and enable coexistence."

Jérôme B., the main suspect in Lyhanna's death in the Gers region, had multiple reports and complaints filed against him but had no prior criminal record at the time of the events.