The status quo in the Oscar Jegou-Hugo Auradou case remains, with each side maintaining its version. The two French national team players are accused of “aggravated rape” by a 39-year-old Argentine woman, who also claims to have sustained blows from them. According to the medical report, “about fifteen injuries” are documented. “Micro-injuries or marks,” argues Me Antoine Vey, one of the lawyers for Oscar Jegou and Hugo Auradou.
Both admit to having had a sexual encounter with the complainant in a hotel room after the Argentina-France test match on the night of July 6-7, but deny any coercion or violence.
The French internationals, who have been placed under surveillance in Argentina since their release from detention, will be heard by the Mendoza court on Thursday, August 8. Speaking to the press, Me Rafael Cuneo Libarona, another lawyer for the suspects, promises that they have “nothing to hide.”
“There have been notable contradictions and what is even more serious is that different versions of the story have been allowed,” he argues. The lawyer also regrets that she “did not want to give her phone to justice to decipher what happened.”
A “very clear and concrete” account from the complainant
According to Me Rafael Cuneo Libarona, “the innocence of (his) two clients, detained for 20 days, has been proved.” “They will return to normal life very soon. Sooner or later, they will once again represent their country,” promises the lawyer. “They are very sad and very angry because they are becoming aware of the injustice they are experiencing.”
Oscar Jegou and Hugo Auradou were initially scheduled to be heard on Tuesday, August 6, but it was ultimately the alleged victim who was heard that day.
Me Natacha Romano, one of her lawyers, stated that “the extension of the deposition was flawless and very moving at the beginning. The victim was supported throughout the process and even her brother was allowed to enter. Assistance was also provided to the victim.”
Despite her client’s distress, Me Natacha Romano guarantees that the complainant provided “clarifications” in response to questions and delivered a “very clear and concrete account.”
According to the lawyer, the players and their counsel will opt for silence in front of the prosecutor during their hearing, which Me Rafael Cuneo Libarona denies. A response is expected within 24 hours.
Original article published on RMC Sport
