Nicolas Zepeda’s Fate Hangs in the Balance as French Court Deliberates in Narumi Kurosaki Murder Case
Lyon, France – The Rhône Court of Appeal is deliberating in the case of Nicolás Zepeda, accused of the 2016 murder of his former girlfriend, Japanese exchange student Narumi Kurosaki, in Besançon, France. Closing arguments concluded on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, with Zepeda’s defense attorneys pleading for his acquittal and the prosecutor requesting a 30-year prison sentence[1].
Defense Focuses on Lack of Definitive Evidence
Zepeda’s lawyers, Maître Robin Binsard and Maître Sylvain Cormier, centered their defense on the lack of conclusive evidence linking their client to Kurosaki’s death. Binsard argued that the investigation suffered from critical omissions, stating, “There is no certainty in this case.” He emphasized the need for exhaustive investigation, suggesting that crucial steps were overlooked in the pursuit of truth[1].
The defense team scrutinized the digital investigation, questioning the validity of evidence gathered from Zepeda’s and Kurosaki’s computers. They highlighted technical aspects such as IP addresses, VPN usage, and translation tools, demonstrating a detailed understanding of the digital forensics involved. Cormier conceded that their argument was “rough and arid,” lacking a compelling narrative, but maintained that the investigation was flawed in comparison to the extensive efforts made to locate Kurosaki’s body[1].
Drawing Parallels to Past Judicial Errors
To bolster their argument, the defense referenced several high-profile French judicial errors, including the Outreau, Marc Machin, and Patrick Dils cases. Binsard warned the jury that they might revisit the Zepeda case in the future, questioning their own judgment if doubts lingered. Cormier recalled his early career experience with the Patrick Dils case, highlighting the possibility of wrongful convictions[1].
Complex Legal History
The case has been marked by multiple trials and appeals. Zepeda was initially found guilty of murder in April 2022 and sentenced to 28 years in prison[1]. A retrial commenced in December 2023, upholding the original sentence. Although, in February 2025, France’s highest appeals court, the Court of Cassation, ordered a third trial, citing the withholding of evidence from the defense[1]. This current trial represents the third attempt to secure a definitive verdict.
Looking Ahead
The jury is expected to deliver its verdict on Thursday, March 26, 2026, following Zepeda’s final statement. The outcome will determine whether Zepeda remains incarcerated or is acquitted, potentially bringing closure to this long and complex legal saga. The case continues to attract international attention due to its cross-continental nature, involving authorities from France, Japan, and Chile[1].
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