Samuel G. Suicide in Lina Case: Can a Dead Suspect Still Be Prosecuted by Justice ?

Lina a disparu en septembre 2023, après le suicide du principal suspect, les recherches se poursuivent ce mercredi 31 juillet. AFP – FREDERICK FLORIN

After the suicide of the main suspect in the Lina case, we are approaching the epilogue of this disappearance. The search has resumed since Tuesday, July 30, to try to find the teenager. But what about the suspect? ? Could the family hope for legal action? ?

Can the dead be prosecuted? ? After the suicide of Samuel G, who was driving the car Lina was in and who had made several trips to the south of France (where the vehicle was found), the main suspect in this case leaves behind many unanswered questions.

However, can justice still prosecute this suspect? ? “No, explains Montpellier criminal lawyer Florian Medico. The death of the perpetrator or suspect of an offence or crime results in the extinction of public action. No criminal prosecution is therefore possible when the suspect dies.

Florian Medico criminal lawyer in Montpellier. Midi Libre – FRANCOIS BARRERE

The investigation continues

On the other hand, the death of the main suspect does not necessarily mean the end of the investigation. “The investigation may continue, in particular to look for possible accomplices and to ensure that the perpetrator was alone”, specifies Mr. Medico. In concrete terms, there may be a procedure that continues, even if it does not result in a trial.

The importance of the investigation also lies, in such a case, in determining whether there was indeed a crime or offense. In which case, the family, in the absence of a trial, can still claim compensation from the Civi (Commission for Compensation of Victims of Crimes).

Finally, “the investigation will probably focus on the potential existence of other victims”, explains the lawyer.

The suicide of a suspect remains a relatively rare case, but Me Florian Medico has already experienced similar cases. “I have already seen the case of people indicted and prisoners who commit suicide before trial. In this case too, they are never judged. I also had the case of a suicide after a conviction, in the context of an appeal. At that time, the first conviction is considered final,” the criminal lawyer summarizes.