Stéphane Plaza Convicted of Domestic Violence, Appeals Sentence
Stéphane Plaza, the renowned real estate agent and television personality, has been found guilty of repeated violence against a former partner and sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended, by a Paris court. The charges stem from incidents that occurred between 2018 and 2022. Plaza has announced his intention to appeal the verdict.
Plaza’s attorneys, Hélène Plumet and Carlo Alberto Brusa, expressed disappointment with the outcome, asserting that the "judicial machine" had "overreacted" against a man known for his "kindness." Plumet further denounced "media pressure" as a factor in the conviction, while a tearful Plaza was barred from contacting the victim for three years.
The court president detailed the evidence against Plaza, including consistent allegations from the primary complainant, Amandine, of four incidents of violence. Three of these incidents were corroborated by witness testimony and medical examinations, involving physical harm (a punch to the shoulder, twisted fingers) and psychological abuse (public humiliation).
At a hearing on January 9th, Plaza had vehemently denied the accusations. Regarding the twisted fingers incident, he explained his lack of control due to dyspraxia and clumsiness, claiming not to have realized Amandine was injured.
The prosecution had emphasized the need for a "just sentence" that would hold Plaza accountable and acknowledge the financial burden on victims in cases where money played a role in the dynamics of control. Accordingly, the court ordered Plaza to pay €5,000 to Amandine for physical damages, €3,000 for emotional distress, and €3,000 for legal fees.
Regarding a second complainant, Paola, the court acknowledged her allegations but noted that the psychological violence she described was primarily based on her own statements. While acknowledging its potential impact, the court found it difficult to establish a causal link to the incidents in question due to the absence of a psychiatric evaluation. Plaza was acquitted on these charges.
The verdict has sparked reactions from the public and media, raising questions about the prevalence of domestic violence and the challenges faced by victims in seeking justice. Some have questioned whether Plaza’s celebrity status influenced the outcome, while others express hope that the case will raise awareness and encourage victims to report such incidents.
Key Points
- Stéphane Plaza convicted of domestic violence against former partner Amandine.
- Accusations include physical assault (punch, twisted fingers) and psychological abuse.
- Plaza sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended, and barred from contact with Amandine for three years.
- Appeal filed by Plaza.
- Defense argues "overreaction" by judicial system and "media pressure."
- Second complainant’s allegations of psychological violence dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
- Victim awarded €11,000 in damages.
- Verdicts raise questions about domestic violence, celebrity influence, and victim support.
