Arnaud Monier on trial for multiple charges

Arnaud Monier, a 50-year-old man, has been on trial in a closed session since October 1st for alleged rapes, sexual assaults, pimping, and corruption of minors. The alleged crimes are said to have occurred between 2016 and June 2023.

Prosecutor seeks long prison sentences

The prosecutor has requested 13 years and 15 years in prison for two other men, aged 58 and 53, who were Monier’s regular lovers. They are suspected of raping a boy and one of his friends, who were between 11 and 15 years old at the time.

Alleged exploitation through online platform

Monier, who regained custody of his son after the child's alcoholic mother died, is alleged to have forced the two teenagers into paid sexual relations with men contacted through the website coco.fr. The encounters reportedly took place in a forest.

Defendant partially admits to crimes

Monier “generally admits” the acts committed against his son and his friend but partially disputes accusations involving other young people, according to his lawyer, Marjorie Weiermann. She stated he now recognizes the abnormality of his behavior and the harm he caused.

Flight to Chile and extradition

Monier fled to Chile in 2023 after learning a complaint had been filed against him. The Chilean justice approved his extradition to France the following year. His son, now 17, was placed under the care of an uncle.

Trial described as emotionally challenging

The trial is described by the young man’s lawyer, Agnes Ravat-Sandre, as a difficult process that will involve recounting traumatic events and confronting the accused, who is both the boy’s father and alleged aggressor.