Patrick Bruel was released overnight after a hearing before a judge. His pretrial detention had been requested, but the singer was ultimately placed under judicial supervision. He therefore remains free at this stage of the proceedings, within the framework of the judicial investigation opened into the alleged events. However, he could face serious consequences, according to Corinne Herrmann, lawyer for several alleged victims, including Flavie Flament. Flament indicated this morning on BFMTV that other complaints could be filed in the coming days.
According to her, the singer's legal situation could still change if new evidence or complaints were added to the case. When questioned about the criminal risk faced by Patrick Bruel, Corinne Herrmann stated that he "risks the maximum sentence".
She explained that the existence of several facts, if they were upheld and if the singer were sent to trial before a court of assizes for all of these facts, could constitute an aggravating circumstance.
The 20-year prison threshold mentioned
The lawyer mentioned a sentence that could exceed 20 years in prison. According to her, when multiple rape charges are brought in the same case, the repeated nature of the offenses can significantly influence the assessment of the sentence.
As a reminder, Patrick Bruel was formally charged in connection with allegations made by four women. In four other cases, he was placed under the status of assisted witness. One other charge was dismissed.
