Death of a Traveller: A Counter Investigation

A 37-year-old Traveller man is shot dead by French police on his family farm, claiming self-defense. His family contests this claim, and a case is opened, but it is eventually dismissed. Didier Fassin conducts a counter-investigation, giving each account the same credit and highlighting the lack of respect and punishment for such tragedies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2021
Publisher: Polity Press

A 37-year-old man, a member of the Traveller community, was tragically shot dead by a special unit of the French police on his family farm, where he had been hiding since failing to return to prison after a temporary release. The officers claimed self-defense, but the relatives present at the scene disputed this assertion. A case was opened, and it concluded with a dismissal that was upheld on appeal. Dismayed by these decisions, the family continued their struggle for truth and justice.

In his book, Didier Fassin conducts a comprehensive counter-investigation, re-examining all available details and conducting interviews with the protagonists. He aims to provide a critical reflection on the work of police forces, the functioning of the justice system, and the conditions that make such tragedies possible and often go unpunished.

Death of a Traveller is not only a story of tragedy but also an attempt to restore respectability to marginalized communities that are often denied it. Fassin highlights the struggles and challenges faced by Travellers, who are often subjected to discrimination and marginalization. He seeks to bring attention to their rights and dignity and to advocate for their inclusion in society.

Through his meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Fassin sheds light on the complexities of the justice system and the challenges faced by those who seek to uphold the law. He challenges the notion that police officers are always justified in their actions and calls for a more thorough investigation and accountability for those who commit crimes.

Death of a Traveller is a powerful and thought-provoking book that raises important questions about justice, discrimination, and the human rights of marginalized communities. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of contemporary society and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 144 x 223 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509547401