Albi, Tarn – The trial of Cédric Jubillar, accused of the murder of his wife, Delphine Jubillar, took a dramatic turn on Wednesday as testimony from a close friend of the victim cast significant doubt on the defense’s claims. Anne-Michelle Sirven, 46, a longtime friend of Delphine, delivered a compelling and detailed account of the couple's relationship, painting a picture of a strained marriage and revealing concerns she held about Cédric’s behavior.
Ms. Sirven described how she and Delphine’s friendship blossomed through their children, a connection forged through school activities and shared parenting experiences. She recounted a bond built on shared confidences and everyday life, eventually evolving into a deep friendship where they openly discussed their lives and relationships.
“It started with the kids, naturally,” Ms. Sirven told the court. “But it quickly grew into something more. We were there for each other, through everything.”
Crucially, Ms. Sirven revealed that Delphine had confided in her about growing dissatisfaction and fear within the marriage. While she did not explicitly state Delphine feared for her life, she portrayed a woman increasingly unhappy and isolated. Her account corroborated previous testimonies emphasizing a growing emotional distance between the couple and alleged controlling behavior exhibited by Cédric Jubillar.
The testimony has reportedly shaken the defense, which has maintained Cédric’s innocence and emphasized a potential amicable separation as the motive for Delphine’s disappearance. The lawyer for the Jubillar family expressed shock at Ms. Sirven's clear recounting, claiming her narrative was sensationalized and lacked concrete evidence.
The prosecution, however, hailed Ms. Sirven’s testimony as a pivotal moment in the trial, stating it reinforces their case that Jubillar was motivated by jealousy and control, ultimately leading to his wife’s disappearance.
The trial continues today with further witness testimony, including the expected appearance of the partner of Delphine’s alleged lover, a figure who had initially been a suspect in the investigation before being cleared. The court is expected to hear further details about the couple’s turbulent relationship and potential catalysts for Delphine’s disappearance, which remains unsolved despite years of investigation.