Defense Says Leiden Woman Died by Suicide as Prosecutors Seek 18 Years

Overview

• Defense for 39-year-old Paul V. told the court Wednesday that two independent pathologists found Laura’s neck injuries fit suicide.
• Prosecutors on Monday sought 18 years in prison plus involuntary psychiatric treatment, saying Paul V. strangled her with a dog chain.
• The family’s lawyer urged a murder verdict and pointed to internet searches and what he called a pattern of control typical of femicide.
• Key evidence remains disputed, including a cut leash, a loose knot on a heating pipe, Paul V.’s DNA on that pipe, and step-counter data from both phones.
• The Hague court will deliver its ruling on 24 June, a decision likely to signal how judges balance forensic pathology with circumstantial patterns in suspected partner killings.