On 1 March at 6.40am, a completely naked woman, who was being chased by a visibly violent man, was spotted by the city surveillance cameras in the city centre of Metz, reports Le Républicain Lorrain.
The woman managed to take refuge in a passing vehicle, while the police arrived on the scene to arrest the man who was chasing her. It was no easy task, as the man struggled, spat, and insulted the police, according to reports.
The 36-year-old woman, who is under reinforced guardianship, accused the man of years-long rape and physical abuse. That evening, after agreeing to have a drink with the man at her home, the situation turned violent. In an act of self-defense, the woman unintentionally injured the man on the cheek, according to her account. She is now also facing prosecution for assault in the criminal court.
The 45-year-old man, diagnosed with schizophrenia, has two prior convictions for assaulting his ex-girlfriend. In his defense, he claimed that the woman had consented to sexual intercourse and accused her of being delusional, while also alleging mistreatment by the police.
His lawyer emphasised his client’s condition, noting that he was no longer taking his medication and arguing that a prison sentence would be counterproductive. Instead, the lawyer advocated for a day-release sentence. However, the court found the man guilty of all charges, sentencing him to 12 months in prison with continued detention. Additionally, the court mandated medical treatment and imposed a three-year restraining order.
