Reports on France 2: The horrific true story behind the Cecil Boy child abuse film

119 is the national number dedicated to the prevention and protection of children in danger or at risk: https://www.allo119.gouv.fr/

The following story contains descriptions that may offend our most sensitive readers.

Behind a painful movie is often a terrifying true story. This is the case of Signalements, a film by Eric Metayer (Les chatouilles), broadcast on Wednesday, November 20 on France 2.

Inspired by the autobiographical book by Karine and Lawrence Brune-Jambu, Signalements tells the story of an aunt’s fierce struggle to save her niece from her abusive parents.

Despite numerous reports and warnings to authorities, child welfare workers and the justice system kept the little girl in a toxic and abusive family environment. It is only after years of struggle that Lawrence is alerted to the failure of child protection.

The terrifying true story that inspired the film

Karine went through hell from the first moments of her life. Born in 1997 to a convicted infanticide mother – she killed her first child with 180 stab wounds – Karine suffered the worst of childhood cruelty. Beatings, insults, confiscations, repeated executions… nothing will be spared.

In 2002, the situation worsened. Karine was only five years old when her parents decided to take in a pedophile who had recently served time in prison for raping minors, including their own daughter. In three years, Karine was raped more than 300 times under her parents’ roof.

Although they repeatedly surprise her in bed with the attacker, Kareena’s parents turn a blind eye and allow themselves to be bribed with alcohol and cigarettes. They even went so far as to threaten their daughter to keep quiet.

Throughout these years, Karine was often found sleeping on the doormat in front of her apartment door, was seen wandering the streets alone at night, and developed, traumatized, hypersexual behavior for her age.

Teachers and neighbors raise warnings. in vain Childhood professionals, unfortunately, turn a blind eye to this little girl’s ordeal. Abandoned by everyone, Karine can count on the support of Aunt Laurence, who will lead a fierce fight to save her.

In total, it took 14 reports of abuse and rape before Karine was removed from her family, not counting the many years it took her to find the courage to speak out. Lawrence, who would have given anything to save her niece, finally adopted her in 2015 when she came of age.

Only in 2018, Karine’s abuser was sentenced to 30 years in prison for the rape he committed and 14 other victims. Eventually, Karine’s parents were found guilty of witness tampering. As a result, the father was sentenced to 3 years in prison, and the mother to 2 years of probation.

In 2021, Karine sued the state for gross negligence and denial of justice.

Reports strongly condemns the dysfunctions of the child protection system and raises crucial questions about collective responsibility in the face of such tragedies. A battle that ultimately lasted 20 years for Laurence and Karine Brune-Jambu. The film will be followed by a debate “How to protect children at risk?” presented by Carol Gassler, in the presence of Karine and Laurence Brune-Jambu.

Remember that 119, a free and anonymous national number, is available for any child abuse, be it psychological, physical or sexual.