French Singer Patrick Bruel Faces Formal Investigation for Rape in France
Details of the Investigation and Allegations
Overview of the Charges
PARIS, June 11 (Reuters) - French singer and actor Patrick Bruel, one of France's top-selling recording artists, has been placed under formal investigation for rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, and harassment from 2008 to 2019, the local prosecutor's office said on Thursday.
Legal Process and Implications
Being placed under formal investigation means there are reasonable grounds to believe a crime has been committed and is a step toward going to trial.
Background and Context
Previous Allegations and Bruel's Response
• Bruel, who had faced allegations from several women from incidents that spanned 1997 to 2012, has publicly denied any wrongdoing.
Other High-Profile Cases in France
• He is the latest high-profile French figure to face investigators in the wake of the #MeToo movement, after film star Gerard Depardieu was handed a suspended 18-month prison sentence last year for sexually assaulting two women on a film set.
Current Legal Proceedings
Recent Developments
• The 67-year-old was presented to four investigating judges on Wednesday for formal indictment.
Statute of Limitations and Additional Alleged Victims
• Investigating judges will also determine whether incidents involving 13 additional alleged victims between September 1992 and September 2008 are covered under statutes of limitation, French media reported.
• Bruel was released from custody under judicial supervision.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Leo Marchandon and Layli Foroudi; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
