Justine was subjected to a violent beating in La Louvière at the age of 15, which resulted in lasting psychological and physical effects. Six years later, following pursuing legal action, she was informed that her case had been closed without any further action taken by the prosecutor’s office, leaving her feeling completely misunderstood. The incident occurred when she was asked to meet with her “friends” to discuss an argument between teenagers, only to realize that it was a trap. The incident quickly escalated, and she was unable to defend herself. The attack was filmed and shared on social media, further humiliating Justine. She hired a lawyer who noted that the Mons prosecutor’s office had not thoroughly processed her case, despite the severity of the incident. While the prosecutor’s office cited lack of resources as a reason for the delay, Justine’s lawyer is planning to file an appeal to bring justice to the case. Options include criminal proceedings or civil proceedings to claim damages. The incident has left a lasting impact on Justine, causing her to feel scared and anxious in public places.
Justine was beaten in La Louvière when she was 15. A beating from which she keeps the following-effects. 6 years later, following several steps, she learns that her file is closed without further action at the prosecutor’s office. For her, the misunderstanding is total.
It was 6 years ago, in La Louvière (province of Hainaut). Justine takes the hits. She tries to defend herself in vain. She was 15 at the time. His “friends” gave him an appointment to discuss following arguments between teenagers. They are actually setting a trap for him. Quickly, the situation escalates. She remembers : “They took my glasses straight away. I mightn’t see anything. I felt the blows. It was blow following blow. I was just waiting for one thing, for it to end.”
The video of the attack is directly shared on social networks. An additional humiliation for the teenager. She files a complaint hoping that justice will be done. But 6 years later, nothing has come of it. The file has just been closed without further action. “I’m always scared. Here, it’s carnival in my city, I’m always with my sister or with my dad. Otherwise I’m too scared. The consequences, psychological and physical, I will have them all my life, until my death. But I want justice done.”
The facts are serious
Justine therefore decided to hire a lawyer. He notes with astonishment that the prosecution has not processed his client’s file. Master Fabrice Guittadauria speaks of a misunderstanding: “The facts are serious. The attack is violent and shocking. They had this video in the file. The criminal response was essential.” For its part, the Mons public prosecutor’s office explains that the choices are made according to certain criteria, but also admits that the lack of means has an impact on the processing of files.
Damien Verheyen, Deputy Public Prosecutor of Mons: “From the moment we operate with 70% of the workforce, by force of circumstance, work is generally slowed down. It may happen that some files take more delays than others, because of this lack of staff.
Justine’s lawyer is going to file an appeal. Two possible options: in criminal proceedings to punish the perpetrators or in civil proceedings to claim damages.
Injustice is a continuous struggle for many victims. Justine’s case shows how justice can be delayed or even denied in some instances. The impact of physical and psychological trauma can last long following the incident. It is crucial for authorities to allocate sufficient resources to investigate and process cases like these. Justine’s decision to pursue further action through legal means is a testament to her courage and determination. Let us hope that justice will eventually be served in her case and for all those who had to suffer the consequences of others’ actions.
