Prosecutors Seek Lengthy Prison Terms in Trial Over Former Rugby Player Federico Aramburu's Killing

French prosecutors on Wednesday requested prison sentences of 20 and 27 years against two men accused of killing former rugby player Federico Aramburu, who was shot dead in Paris on March 19, 2022. The requests came during closing arguments in the trial, with a verdict expected Friday.

The two defendants, identified as Loik Le Priol and Romain Bouvier, are described as militants associated with the ultra-right, according to the case details. Both have maintained that they did not intend to kill the former rugby player, who was reportedly unarmed at the time of the shooting.

Case Background

Aramburu, a former professional rugby player, was shot and killed in Paris in an incident that drew significant attention in France given his public profile in the sport. The prosecution's case has centered on establishing the intent and circumstances behind the shooting as it built toward Wednesday's sentencing requests.

The defendants' assertion that they did not fire with the intent to kill will likely factor into the court's final determination of the appropriate charges and sentencing, alongside the broader facts presented throughout the trial proceedings.

What's Next

The court is expected to deliver its verdict on Friday, bringing the high-profile trial to a conclusion. The requested sentences of 20 and 27 years represent the prosecution's recommendation, though the final sentencing decision rests with the court based on its assessment of the evidence and arguments presented by both sides.

The case has drawn attention in France partly due to its connection to far-right extremism and the circumstances surrounding the killing of a well-known former athlete.