French Court Psychologist Under Investigation For Being Unqualified

A respected French psychologist whose testimony was pivotal in more than 400 trials in the Dordogne region of France is now accused of fooling judicial authorities with false certificates that went undiscovered for years. Regine Labeur, 54, has been placed under formal investigation for fraud following revelations from her estranged husband that she lacked proper qualifications. The two are in the process of divorcing and her husband informed police about Labeur's fraudulent practice. The range of cases in which she testified include criminal prosecutions, divorce cases, and child custody hearings. She earned an estimated 60,000 euros a year making her one of the most well paid forensic psychologists in the region. It still remains unclear how she was able to present false certificates to attain expert witness. Labeur faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of 75,000 euros. The state prosecutor has ruled out a formal review of the cases in which she gave evidence but attorneys are investigating appeals of legal decisions based on her testimony. For more information.