French Rugby Players Leave Argentina After Rape Charges
Hugo Auradou and Oscar Jegou, two French rugby internationals, have left Argentina after being charged with aggravated gang rape. The players departed from Buenos Aires' Ezeiza International Airport late Tuesday night, following a decision from the Mendoza court that lifted their travel ban. Their lawyer, Rafael Cúneo Libarona, described their experience as a 'horror film' lasting nearly two months. The court ruled that the initial accusations had 'lost their force,' allowing the players to return to France.
The case stems from an incident that allegedly took place on July 6-7 in Mendoza, where the players met a 39-year-old woman after a match against Argentina. While the players maintain their innocence and claim the encounter was consensual, the plaintiff's lawyer has alleged serious violence. After spending over a week in detention, Auradou and Jegou were placed under house arrest, but they were finally released on August 12 with a ban on leaving the country until this week.
As they boarded their flight to Paris, the players did not make any statements to the media but were accompanied by their lawyer, who expressed confidence in the eventual dismissal of the case. The Mendoza prosecutor's office had recommended their departure, indicating that the evidence against them was weakening. They are now expected to comply with any future summons from the Argentine authorities, including possible virtual hearings.
This case has drawn significant media attention and raised questions about the legal proceedings in Argentina. The players are now hopeful for a swift resolution, with their lawyer estimating that a dismissal could be obtained within ten working days.
- The ongoing investigation has faced scrutiny, particularly regarding the psychological and psychiatric assessments of the plaintiff, which are crucial to the case. The Mendoza court is expected to review the request for dismissal soon, as legal proceedings continue. Meanwhile, the players are eager to resume their rugby careers, having been presumed innocent throughout the ordeal.
