Prosecution Requests Dismissal in Auradou-Jegou Case
In a significant development in the case involving French rugby players Hugo Auradou and Oscar Jegou, the Mendoza prosecutor's office has officially requested the dismissal of charges against the athletes. The two players were accused of aggravated gang rape for an incident that allegedly occurred on July 7, following a test match in Mendoza, Argentina. As reported, the prosecution's position reflects a thorough investigation led by prosecutor Dario Nora and Daniela Chaler, head of the Unit for Crimes against Sexual Integrity.
The request for dismissal comes after the defense lawyers filed a motion on August 27, arguing for the case to be dropped. Martin Ahumada, spokesperson for the Mendoza prosecution, confirmed that the prosecution supports this motion and has requested a hearing with Judge Eleonora Arenas to discuss the matter further. This hearing will allow both parties to present their arguments, with a date expected to be set shortly.
The two players, who returned to France on September 4 after being detained for 58 days, have consistently maintained their innocence. They admit to having consensual relations with the complainant but deny any allegations of violence. If the judge agrees to dismiss the case, the plaintiff's lawyer, Natacha Romano, has indicated plans to appeal the decision, which could lead to further legal proceedings. According to Argentine penal code, a dismissal could lead to a definitive closure of the case, potentially exonerating the accused.
- The allegations against Auradou and Jegou stem from a complaint made by a 39-year-old woman, which has led to extensive media coverage and public scrutiny. The players, aged 21 and representing prominent French rugby clubs, have faced significant challenges during this legal ordeal. As the judicial process unfolds, the psychological evaluations of the alleged victim have been pivotal. Reports have revealed inconsistencies in her accounts, raising questions about the credibility of her claims. In contrast, an expert report validated by the prosecution supports the complainant's repeated accounts as credible. This dichotomy highlights the complexities involved in sexual assault cases, where evidence and personal testimonies can often conflict. In light of these developments, legal experts are closely monitoring the situation, particularly how the Mendoza court will handle the upcoming hearing. The outcome will not only impact the players' careers but also set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
