Luxembourg public prosecution demands 7 years of prison for alleged rape

(mth/sth) A former Luxembourg-Belair priest is currently in court for the alleged rape of an adolescent in 2008. The public prosecutor demands the court issues a seven year prison sentence, regarding the admitted rape allegations.

However, the prosecution is not in principle opposing a sentence reduction, given that the defendant has no criminal history.

The prosecution sees sufficient prove that Emile A. sexually assaulted a 14-year old student during a trip to Taizé in France, by receiving oral sex from the victim. The accused initially made contradictory claims in this regard, but eventually admitted to the charges in court.

Furthermore, the prosecution regards the question of guilt as resolved, arguing that it was impossible for the victim to have acted of his own free will. Due to his age, surrounding circumstances and the reserved character of the victim, it was impossible for him to defend himself against the accused.

The defence of the accused had tried to put part of the blame on the victim, suggesting he was fully aware of his acts and even actively encouraging them.

This view was rejected by the prosecution, saying the defendant abused his position as a person of trust and authority over the young victim to manipulate and intimidate him.

The defendant's lawyer asked the court to acquit the accused of the charges in case of any doubts, while the victim's defence asked for a compensation of 15,000 euros for the victim.

The judgement will be pronounced on December 20.