France Considers Justice System Resources After Discovery of Child's Body

French officials said they would examine whether resources for the justice system are lacking after the body of an 11-year-old girl was discovered. The statement followed an initial assertion that funding levels were adequate. Officials later indicated a willingness to review specific areas where shortfalls might exist.

Lawmakers learned that spending authorizations totaling €414 million for the justice system had been blocked as part of efforts to reduce the deficit. Of that amount, €370 million affected prison administration. The freezes occurred on the same day the girl disappeared.

Officials noted that justice system funding has risen since 2017. They added that the increases arrived after a period that left the system in a fragile state, including overcrowded prisons.