Urgent Call for DNA Results in Sophie Toscan du Plantier Case

UPDATE: The former partner of Ian Bailey, the prime suspect in the 1996 murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier, has urgently demanded the release of DNA test results that could prove his innocence. Jules Thomas criticized the delay in a letter sent to Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan and Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly, highlighting the distress caused by the unresolved case.

Thomas described the situation as a “never-ending nightmare,” expressing disbelief that results from advanced DNA analysis have yet to be announced. “Those results were expected at least a month ago,” she stated, referring to the M-Vac method used to analyze evidence from the murder scene in West Cork.

The DNA tests examine crucial evidence, including a blood sample found on a concrete block, which is believed to have been used in the brutal killing of the French film producer. These tests began in August 2023, with initial reports suggesting that results would emerge within weeks.

Bailey, who passed away in January 2024, consistently maintained his innocence throughout his life. He was arrested twice but was never tried in connection with the case. In 2019, he was convicted in absentia in France, but Irish authorities refused to extradite him, citing the reliance on hearsay evidence.

“I cannot tell you how much pain I have endured for half of my adult life whilst the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier remains unsolved,” Thomas wrote in her letter.

Thomas emphasized the emotional toll on both herself and Bailey’s sister, Kay Reynolds, who has also suffered due to the lingering questions surrounding the case. “I believe Ian lost his life because of the pain he suffered by being wrongly accused,” she added.

Despite the challenges, Reynolds remains hopeful for Bailey’s exoneration, stating she would be “shocked beyond belief” if his DNA were found on the exhibits. Thomas requested that the Garda respond to her appeal for the publication of the test results.

Speaking to Extra.ie, Thomas highlighted the lack of communication from the Garda cold case team, stating, “The entire investigation into Sophie’s death was taken in only one direction.” She expressed concern that other potential witnesses were never contacted.

With the anticipated results still pending, Thomas fears that the delay may indicate they do not implicate Bailey. “If he is exonerated – and I’m sure he will be in the end – I can’t imagine the emotions I would feel then but they would be of such immense relief,” she stated.

As public sentiment shifts in Bantry, where Bailey spent his final years, more people are beginning to believe in his innocence. Thomas reflected on their troubled relationship, stating, “He was not a killer.”

Amidst the ongoing uncertainty, Thomas has refrained from watching “Re-Creation,” a film dramatizing the case, due to personal distress over its portrayal of her past.

The urgency of the situation is palpable, as the families involved seek closure and justice nearly three decades after the tragic events unfolded. The public eagerly awaits the results that could change everything.