Argentina Rugby Players Granted House Arrest in Mendoza Rape Case
Mendoza, Argentina
The provincial prosecutor’s office in Mendoza, Argentina has granted house arrest to French rugby players Oscar Jegou and Hugo Auradou, who are accused of alleged rape. The 20-year-old Jegou and 21-year-old Auradou were arrested last Monday, transferred to Mendoza, and charged with rape aggravated by the participation of two people.
According to the Prosecutor’s Office for Crimes Against Sexual Integrity, which is handling the case, the decision was made due to the level of evidence reached and the absence of procedural risk. Both athletes will be fitted with movement bracelets and will be under house arrest until further notice.
The defense attorney, Rafael Cúneo, welcomed the decision, stating, "We have managed to transfer the prison to a private residence, we are very happy. It is a very important step forward for the two rugby players and also for French rugby."
Auradou and Jegou were arrested following a complaint from a woman who met them in the early hours of July 7, after a friendly match against the Argentine rugby team. The athletes claim that the sexual relationship was consensual and deny having acted violently.
The investigation into the case continues, with the next step being a round of witness statements. The taxi driver who drove the woman from the Diplomatic Hotel, where the alleged rape occurred, to her home at eight in the morning, has already given evidence.
Source: Agence France-Presse (AFP)