French rugby players Oscar Jegou and Hugo Auradou have been indicted for aggravated rape in Mendoza, Argentina. The Mendoza prosecutor, Cecilia Bignert, confirmed their indictment following a nearly two-hour closed-door hearing with the accused, their lawyers, and the complainant's lawyer. Both players are under investigation for sexual abuse with carnal access aggravated by the participation of two people, a charge that carries a potential sentence of 8 to 20 years in prison.
The alleged incident occurred on the night of Saturday to Sunday in Mendoza, following the French rugby team's victory against Argentina. The 39-year-old complainant filed her complaint on Sunday, and she was hospitalized on Thursday due to 'general decompensation of the body,' according to her lawyer, Natacha Romano. Despite their lawyer's request for house arrest, both Jegou and Auradou remain in detention.
The two players arrived in Mendoza on Thursday evening after being arrested in Buenos Aires. They were transported over a distance of approximately 1,100 km to face the charges. A hearing is scheduled for Friday morning, and Mendoza prosecutor's spokesperson Martin Ahumada stated that unless the defense presents sufficient evidence, the players will remain detained.
The players admit to having had a 'sexual relationship' with the complainant but deny any form of violence. Their lawyer, Rafael Cuneo Libaronan, insists that the relationship was consensual and has listed several pieces of evidence to support this claim. However, the complainant's lawyer, Natacha Romano, describes the incident as 'particularly atrocious sexual violence,' involving severe physical assault.
The complainant, who is the daughter and sister of lawyers, was hospitalized for 'hypothymia' and 'decompensation.' The physical and psychological toll of the incident has been significant, with a psychologist suggesting she may be suffering from post-traumatic stress syndrome. The complainant's detailed testimony aligns with medico-legal conclusions, according to the Attorney General of Mendoza, Daniela Chaler.
The French Rugby Federation president, Florian Grill, has expressed hope for a swift judicial process. French Minister of Sports Amélie Oudéa-Castéra also commented on the case, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations and expressing sympathy for the victim. The case has sent shockwaves through the French rugby community, with many calling for a thorough and expedited investigation.
- The incident has significantly impacted the French rugby community, with the French Rugby Federation president, Florian Grill, advocating for a quick resolution to the case. He has met with the accused players and presented several points to the Mendoza public prosecutor's office that could challenge the initial declarations.
- French Minister of Sports Amélie Oudéa-Castéra has also weighed in on the case, highlighting the severity of the allegations and extending her thoughts to the victim. The case has stirred considerable turmoil within the French XV team, with many players and officials hoping for a thorough and fair investigation.
- Psychological experts have suggested that the complainant may be experiencing post-traumatic stress syndrome due to the incident. The complainant's hospitalization and the detailed account of her ordeal have added to the urgency and seriousness of the case. The judicial process in Mendoza will continue to unfold as both sides present their evidence and testimonies.
