Heidi De Schepper's sons await trial to conclude their ordeal
Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The three sons of Heidi De Schepper are preparing for a trial by jury following the completion of the murder investigation into their mother's death.
- Their lawyer stated the trial is crucial for them to conclude their ordeal.
- The sons maintain contact with their father, who is also accused of the murder.
The three sons of Heidi De Schepper are nearing the end of a long legal process following the completion of the murder investigation into their mother's death. Their lawyer, Romy Geysen, emphasized that an upcoming trial by jury is essential for the young men to finally close this traumatic chapter. "That will be important to conclude all of this," Geysen stated, highlighting the emotional toll the ordeal has taken.
While the final decision on whether the case proceeds to a jury trial rests with the indictment chamber, the public prosecutor's office in Antwerp has already requested a trial by jury for two suspects in the case: De Schepper's former partner and a friend. Geysen described her clients' journey as an "emotional rollercoaster" and noted that the end of the investigation brings a sense of procedural closure.
The sons, who were very young when their mother disappeared in 2010, have maintained contact with their father, who is also accused of the murder. Geysen confirmed that the possibility for contact exists, whether through prison visits or phone calls. The lawyer stressed that the full story and details of what happened will be brought to light during the trial, as the sons were deprived of truly knowing their mother. She also highlighted the need for support as their personal lives are now under intense public scrutiny.
Geysen aims to shield her clients from the intense spotlight, acknowledging the significant emotional impact of having their lives dissected publicly. The sons are looking forward to the point where a jury makes a decision, which they believe is vital for moving forward. Their lives have been on hold, and the trial represents a potential path to closure and the ability to finally conclude their suffering.
That will be important to conclude all of this.
Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.