Patrick Bruel placed under formal rape, sexual assault investigation
What's new: French judges also reviewed whether 13 older allegations can be included despite statutes of limitation.
French singer and actor Patrick Bruel has been placed under formal investigation over allegations of rape, attempted rape, sexual assault and harassment tied to incidents from 2008 to 2019. The 67-year-old was brought before four investigating judges in Nanterre after two days in custody and was later released under judicial supervision. Under French procedure, formal investigation means judges found grounds to keep examining whether crimes were committed and often precedes a trial. Bruel has denied wrongdoing. Prosecutors are also asking judges to review 13 older allegations, including one made by TV and radio host Flavie Flament, to determine whether any fall within legal time limits.