Linda Kebbab, the national secretary of the Unité SGP Police-Force Ouvrière and police officer, has recently made headlines with her stark criticisms of the French judicial system during interviews on CNews and Europe 1. On February 11, 2025, she expressed strong discontent over the leniency shown to juvenile delinquents and identified systematic failures within the justice framework as the root of rising insecurity across France.
Kebbab, known for her outspoken views, described the current state of judicial response to youth crime as “a chaos which does not say its name,” emphasizing the plight of both victims and perpetrators amid this turmoil. She pointed to the slow and ineffective nature of the justice system, which she claims fosters impunity, particularly among minors. “When a young person is found guilty, we tell them: ‘You are guilty, we will come back in a year to see what you have become and maybe we’ll sanction you,’” Kebbab lamented, indicating this approach fails to deter criminal behavior.
This perspective resonates with growing concerns among law enforcement officials and the public alike, particularly following tragic events such as the murder of Louise, an 11-year-old girl found dead near her home. The girl’s death has sent shockwaves through the community, amplifying calls for urgent reform. Kebbab has openly criticized political leaders for making promises they cannot keep to families affected by crime.
Kebbab has been vocal about the role of the Syndicate of the Magistrature, claiming it has cultivated judicial laxity resulting in widespread impunity. She accused it of “pushing for leniency and encouraging the current lack of accountability,” which she argues emboldens young criminals. Her comments cast doubt on the integrity of the system meant to protect the public.
The police secretary has called for decisive actions, advocating for “a shock of judicial authority” aimed at reforming juvenile justice policy. She proposed implementing very short sentences during the school hours, which she argues would allow for punishment without social ostracization. Kebbab asserted these methods have proven effective in various European countries and could be adapted for France.
Linda Kebbab’s insistence on immediate change is underpinned by her experience as both law enforcement and union leadership. She stressed the need for sufficient resources to be allocated to prevention and treatment, particularly spotlighting mental health services to curtail recidivism among youths. “If the law does not protect, it must be changed,” she stated emphatically, encapsulating her overarching message.
The growing climate of insecurity has sparked widespread public discourse on the failings of the judicial system, with many citing Kebbab’s critiques as illuminating the urgent need for comprehensive reform. Observations from multiple investigations and discussions confirm what Kebbab argues: insufficient punitive measures perpetuate the feeling of impunity among youth.
Critically, as Kebbab spoke out, she noted the larger trend of violence referenced during past discussions, reiteratively correlates the slow judicial processes with individuals benefiting from the system's weaknesses.
Consequently, Kebbab's proposals have gained traction among those who believe the justice system requires immediate fortification against crime. Her calls resonate widely, echoing sentiments felt by community members wrestling with fears for their safety amid increasing reports of youth-driven crime.
While her views have faced scrutiny, they also reflect the frustrations of many within France. The persistence of these issues has placed enormous pressure on lawmakers to take decisive action to address public concerns over safety and the overarching effectiveness of the justice system.
Linda Kebbab's discourse continues to challenge both the efficacy and the timeliness of judicial measures, highlighting failures at systemic levels with bold calls for reform. Whether or not her vision will be embraced by the judiciary remains to be seen, but her narrative is sparking conversations within the ranks of law enforcement, political arenas, and the public discourse overall.
This rising voice advocating for urgent change reflects broader anxieties over youth crime and societal safety, encapsulating the need for measured, yet immediate, political will to adapt the justice system to meet contemporary challenges facing French society.