Overview
- Paris appellate prosecutors sought a reopening in a February 3 filing, a step reported Tuesday by several outlets after new DNA results entered the case file.
- The tests from a Dutch laboratory found Besson’s DNA on the back of the complainant’s underwear said to be worn the night of May 18, 2018, according to the requisitions.
- The request targets only the prior dismissal tied to the May 18, 2018 rape allegation and does not address other complaints filed by Sand Van Roy.
- The appeals court’s investigating chamber is scheduled to review the request on June 2 and could order new investigative work if it deems the evidence sufficient.
- The case had been closed after a non-prosecution in 2019, a dismissal in December 2021, and confirmations in 2022 and 2023, while lawyers for both sides offered little comment pending the court’s decision.