The verdict of the Mazan rape trial will be pronounced this December 19, 2024 at the Avignon court. The 51 accused will discover their sentences and most of them risk imprisonment.
The time for the verdict is getting closer. This Thursday from 9:30 a.m., the 51 accused in the Mazan rape case will learn their sentences. We will know if the judges followed the requisitions, which for the most part called for prison time. Or whether the sentences are heavier or lighter.
Furthermore, several defense lawyers have pleaded for acquittal, it remains to be seen whether they will obtain it. We take stock of what these men are risking.
Rape: maximum sentence required for “the conductor”
For a rape with aggravating circumstances in France, you risk up to 20 years in prison. This is also the sentence required against Dominique Pelicot, accused of having organized dozens of these serious sexual assaults.
Other defendants also risk long years in prison, notably for having visited the horror house several times. This is the case of Roman V. This sixty-year-old, who is also HIV positive, is said to have visited the Pelicots six times. 18 years of imprisonment were required against him.
4 to 17 years in prison required for 49 accused
Regarding the others, the prosecutor requested 10 years in prison for eleven defendants, 11 years for two, 12 years for thirteen, 13 years for six, 14 years for six, 15 years for three, 16 years for four and 17 years for three . They are all on trial for rape.
Finally, the lightest sentence required is that of Joseph C. He is not being prosecuted for rape, but for sexual assault. The attorney general requested four years of imprisonment. The Penal Code provides for a maximum of five to seven years in prison, with a fine of up to 100,000 euros.
Requisitions differ from punishment
During a trial, the sentence requested – or requested – by the public prosecutor is not necessarily the one that will be retained. Likewise, the punishment included in the Penal Code does not always apply. The law sets a framework for the maximum, but it is possible to receive lower penalties.
For Friday’s verdict, it is the court which will decide. The deliberation has been underway since Monday afternoon. Depending on everything that has been studied during these weeks of trial, the president will announce sentences adapted on a case-by-case basis.
