A French court has refused to release a woman pardoned for killing her abusive husband, prompting an outcry over a case that has become a cause célèbre. At a news conference, they accused magistrates of refusing to release Sauvage because “the presidential pardon was highly resented by the whole profession”. The prosecution service, which backed the release of Sauvage, will appeal the court’s decision, Melun prosecutor Beatrice Angelelli told AFP. The court’s decision not to release her prompted an outpouring of criticism, with Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo describing it “incomprehensible”. In its ruling the court referenced the “extensive media coverage” of the case in its decision.

Source: The Guardian August 13, 2016 02:48 UTC