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How Dutroux case shocked a nation

A makeshift memorial to four slain Belgian girls is taped on a fence at the Palace of Justice in Arlon.
A makeshift memorial to four slain Belgian girls is taped on a fence at the Palace of Justice in Arlon.

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Accused child killer and pedophile faces trial eight years after his arrest
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ARLON, Belgium (CNN) -- Belgium is braced for the trial of alleged child rapist, kidnapper and killer Marc Dutroux, eight years after the crimes he is accused of traumatized the nation. CNN Senior International Correspondent Walter Rodgers explains the background to what is being described as the country's "trial of the century."

Why did this case cause such a scandal?

Two reasons: The first, of course, was the heinous nature of the crimes – small schoolgirls, one as young as 8 years old, allegedly raped, tortured, murdered, others kidnapped, tortured and murdered. That is enough to strike terror into the heart of any parent who knows they cannot protect their children at all times.

The second reason this has been such a sensational crime is the ham-handedness of the Belgian investigation, which also at one point allowed Marc Dutroux to escape; additionally rival police investigations concealed evidence.

Lastly, and most troubling, is evidence from Dutroux and his accomplices that they are part of a larger network of European pedophiles which they allege goes into the higher echelons of the Belgian police and government. While those allegations are unproven, Belgians are troubled by them, and few are convinced the entire truth of the Dutroux affair will ever come to light.

Why has it taken so long to bring Dutroux to trial?

For many Belgians this is the most outrageous aspect of this crime. One reason for the delay has been the courts arguing among themselves whether Dutroux acted alone or was part of a larger criminal syndicate. There is no question that justice delayed is justice denied. The greatest denial of justice here has been for the seemingly interminable delay the victims' parents have had to endure.

Will there be more political fallout from the case?

Cynically most Belgians believe this case will not extend beyond the trial of Dutroux. They say they have no confidence in a police investigation which finds the police investigating themselves.

What is the public mood in Belgium now?

The public mood now gleaned from talking to people on the streets of Arlon is one of great skepticism. The public faith seems shaken in what should be pillars of confidence, namely the police and the criminal justice system. Even some of the victims' parents seem so disgusted they refuse to participate in the investigation or the trial.

How has the country's media been covering the trial?

Belgian TV has been covering this case as if it were a coronation or inauguration. Huge glass broadcast booths have been built overlooking the courthouse. The newspapers have told the story in the most minute detail, and gory photos have been available on the Internet.

What is the schedule for the trial?

On Monday selection of 12 jurors is taking place from a pool of 180 jurors. Twelve alternate jurors are selected as well. On Tuesday, the second day of the trial, charges against Dutroux and his alleged accomplices are set to be made. On Wednesday it is believed that Dutroux may testify.


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