Cédric Jubillar Maintains Innocence as Jury Deliberates in High-Profile Murder Trial
Cédric Jubillar denies killing his wife as jury begins deliberations after a four-week trial marked by circumstantial evidence and strong defense claims.
- • Cédric Jubillar consistently denies involvement in his wife Delphine's disappearance and murder.
- • The prosecution seeks a 30-year prison sentence based on circumstantial evidence.
- • The jury must reach a majority of seven votes to convict Jubillar of intentional homicide.
- • Defense lawyers argue there is no direct evidence and emphasize reasonable doubt.
Key details
In the final moments of a gripping four-week trial, Cédric Jubillar vehemently denied any involvement in the disappearance and presumed murder of his wife, Delphine Jubillar. Speaking on October 17 at the Tarn court, Jubillar declared, "I have absolutely done nothing to Delphine," as the jury began its deliberations to determine his fate.
Accused of intentionally causing his wife's death on the night of December 15-16, 2020, Jubillar faces a serious prospect: the prosecution has requested a 30-year prison sentence based primarily on circumstantial evidence. This includes a broken pair of Delphine’s glasses and various neighbor testimonies. However, Jubillar’s defense team has challenged the prosecution’s case as lacking concrete proof, emphasizing the absence of direct evidence and urging the jury to consider reasonable doubt.
The jury comprises six jurors and three magistrates, tasked with answering two key questions: Jubillar’s guilt regarding his wife’s death and the nature of their relationship preceding the event. A conviction requires at least seven votes from the nine-member jury. Following a guilty verdict, a separate vote will determine the length of the sentence, again demanding a majority of seven votes to impose a 30-year or life sentence.
Defense attorney Emmanuelle Franck highlighted the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, stating it relies heavily on assumptions and circumstantial facts. In contrast, the prosecution maintains confidence in securing a conviction, citing key testimonies and expert opinions.
With the trial nearing its conclusion but the verdict still pending, both sides have indicated intentions to appeal, hinting that judicial proceedings may continue into 2026. Jubillar has stayed consistent throughout, asserting his innocence since the trial commenced on September 22.
This case remains a focal point of French judicial and public attention, underscoring the challenges courts face in murder cases hinged on circumstantial evidence versus direct proof.