French Mother Imprisoned After Discovery of Newborns in Freezer
The 50-year-old mother at the center of a shocking case in Aillevillers-et-Lyaumont, Haute-Saône, has been formally charged and imprisoned following the discovery of the bodies of two infants in a freezer. Sylvie D., born in 1975, admitted to concealing her pregnancies and delivering the babies alone at home between 2011 and 2018.
A Macabre Discovery and Initial Investigation
The discovery was made on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, when a family member alerted authorities after finding the body of a newborn in the freezer. A subsequent search revealed a second infant’s remains. The mother was initially arrested for murder, but the prosecutor ultimately pursued charges of infanticide, which carries a potential sentence of life imprisonment in France.
Concealed Pregnancies and a History of Secrecy
Sylvie D., a mother of nine children from three different fathers, reportedly hid her pregnancies from family and friends. She fabricated explanations for her weight gain and wore loose clothing to conceal her condition. During questioning, she expressed remorse, frequently weeping and expressing sorrow for her children and family.
Timeline of Events and Arrest
The suspect was apprehended on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the home of one of her children in Boulogne-Billancourt, near Paris. She had left the family home in December without explanation. She claimed to have traveled to Portugal and returned to France to address administrative issues, according to statements made to the investigating judge.
Uncertain Dates and Ongoing Autopsy
The mother was unable to provide precise dates of birth for the two infants, estimating they were born between 2011 and 2018. Autopsies are being conducted to determine the exact cause and time of death for both babies.
The Role of the Father
The father of the children reportedly discovered the first infant and alerted authorities. He has expressed shock and disbelief at the events, stating he was unaware of the pregnancies.
FAQ
What charges has the mother been facing?
She has been charged with infanticide, which carries a potential sentence of life imprisonment in France.
How many children did the mother have?
She is the mother of nine children.
When were the babies believed to have been born?
Between 2011 and 2018.
Who discovered the bodies?
A member of the family discovered the first body, leading to the discovery of the second.
Where was the mother arrested?
She was arrested at the home of one of her children in Boulogne-Billancourt, near Paris.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with autopsies being conducted to determine the cause and time of death.
Did the mother reveal remorse?
Yes, the prosecutor stated that she wept regularly and expressed sorrow during questioning.
What prompted the mother to leave her home in December?
She stated she wanted to separate from her partner.
What was the mother doing in Portugal?
She claimed to have met someone and was addressing administrative issues.
