“I have nothing against homosexuals“, assures the young defendant, just an adult from the accused box under escort. This Friday, April 12, the 18-year-old is on trial at the Le Mans Criminal Court. for three car thefts that occurred last summer in Changé, in the Closeau parking lot.
Five other minors at the time of the events will be tried in juvenile court for similar acts. But he’s alone at the booth, in a black tracksuit, with his lips pouted. “I didn’t hit anyone, but I drove vehicles into areas without cameras, isolated” explains. He adds: “nothing is ready, they are a mixture of knowledge from several quartersThe prosecutor, on the other hand, talks about organization, recruitment, assignment of tasks, a role for each member of the gang.
Theft or homophobic attack?
The prosecution highlights the vulnerability of the victims. There are three of them, yet only one of them has filed a civil lawsuit and is seeking compensation. “Hunters didn’t go to steal a car on Sunday morning, they attacked unarmed men in a place that allowed them impunity“, supports the judge, who is demanding four years in prison, with one year suspended.
The defense attorney argues that the message sent to such a young man, who has to take care of his sick mother, is not serious. He also insists: “Did he intend to assault the gays or simply steal the vehicle?“The defense attorney of the accused even requests the requalification of the accusation and the removal of the aggravating circumstance of “theft committed because of sexual orientation”. It will be rejected.
The young man faces 2 years in prisonand one year of probation. He remains in custody.