A 50-year-old man from Nice was sentenced in Monaco on Tuesday, November 26, for violently assaulting his ex-mistress at her workplace earlier this month. The incident occurred during the night of November 16-17 at the Giaume Chamot Drappier residence, a healthcare facility in Monaco where the victim worked as a nursing assistant. The man was convicted of “intentional violence” and “death threats,” with the sentencing following the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
The defendant, a former nurse, had engaged in an extramarital affair with the victim before ending the relationship and resigning from his job. On the night of the attack, he entered the building illegally and waited for nearly an hour until the victim took her break. What followed was a brutal assault that left the facility’s refectory covered in blood and the victim with injuries requiring five days of medical leave.
In court, the victim recounted a terrifying ordeal, alleging she was punched, had her head slammed against a fridge, and faced attempts to strangle and drown her. She stated that she feared for her life during the attack. The defendant admitted to slapping the victim but denied the severity of her allegations, claiming there was no intent to kill. He also alleged he acted in self-defense after seeing a knife in the victim’s hands. Investigators found both their DNA on the weapon but were unable to determine who wielded it first or with what intent.
The court considered evidence suggesting the attack was premeditated. The victim’s lawyer argued that the defendant had ample time to reconsider his actions, pointing out that he traveled by train from Nice, walked a long distance to Monaco, and waited for the victim at her workplace. The lawyer also emphasized that the defendant’s anger and planning made the attack deliberate.
The prosecutor noted the defendant’s history of violence, referencing a 2018 conviction in France for domestic violence. Despite his claims of self-defense, the prosecutor underscored that the only injuries present were on the victim, labeling the violence one-sided and intentional.
The court sentenced the defendant to two years in prison, with one year suspended under probation, requiring psychological treatment. He was banned from entering Monaco and prohibited from contacting the victim for five years. Additionally, he was ordered to pay €7,500 in damages for the physical and emotional harm inflicted.
The victim, who remains deeply traumatized, expressed ongoing fear of encountering her attacker in the future. The court’s decision aimed to reflect the gravity of the assault and provide justice for the victim, emphasizing the importance of addressing gender-based violence with firm judicial measures.
