The trial for the assassination of Samuel Paty, a 47-year-old teacher murdered in 2020, began in Paris, featuring heightened security and media presence. Abdoullakh Anzorov, the 18-year-old assailant, was arrested shortly after the crime. Eight defendants, including five in custody, face charges related to the attack. Key testimonies from family members and associates of Paty will be presented, aiming to uncover the truth behind the tragedy and ensure accountability. The trial is also being recorded for historical context.
Trial of Samuel Paty’s Assassination Begins
The courthouse is secured with a remarkable array of security measures, surrounded by journalists and members of the public. On Monday morning, the trial regarding the tragic assassination of Samuel Paty, a devoted 47-year-old father and history-geography teacher, commenced at the special assize court in Paris. He met his untimely death mere meters from the Conflans-Sainte-Honorine college in Yvelines, where he taught.
The perpetrator, Abdoullakh Anzorov, an 18-year-old radical Islamist from Chechnya who had been granted asylum in France, was apprehended by police shortly after committing this heinous act. Following the conviction of six minors in December 2023, the current trial involves eight defendants. Among them are five in custody and three released under judicial supervision, facing charges such as complicity in terrorist murder and conspiracy.
Key Testimonies and Expectations
The morning session was primarily focused on introducing the defendants and acknowledging the civil parties, witnesses, and experts set to testify until December 20, when the trial is anticipated to conclude.
This week, family members of Samuel Paty, including his mother Bernadette, his ex-partner, and his sisters, are expected to take the stand. Notably absent will be Samuel’s father, Jean, who suffered an accident a few days prior, as noted by his lawyer, Me Virginie Le Roy.
The testimonies expected include crucial figures such as Brahim Chnina’s daughter, a former student who inadvertently fueled false rumors that led to tragic consequences, Imam Hassen Chalghoumi, and former colleagues of Samuel Paty, some of whom did not rally to his defense after his lesson on press freedom.
“The responsible parties are here!” asserts Me Virginie Le Roy, representing Samuel Paty’s family. She emphasizes their determination to uncover the full truth, seeking clarity on the events that transpired and accountability for those involved. Her hope is to dissect the “mechanism” that led to this crime and provide answers to the lingering questions that have persisted over the last four years.
Francis Szpiner, lawyer for Samuel’s ex-partner and their now 9-year-old son, underscores the family’s quest for justice. He states, “It is imperative that this crime is addressed with the seriousness it merits.” This case marks a significant moment in the Republic, as it is unprecedented for a teacher to be murdered for performing his educational duties.
The trial will also be recorded for historical purposes, a vital step for Samuel’s son. “He will eventually understand the circumstances surrounding his father’s assassination, and this trial offers him a unique opportunity to hear the truth,” Szpiner explains.