Nine appeal convictions in paedophilia trial

Nine people have so far appealed their convictions in a massive French paedophilia trial that uncovered a vast network of child rape in the western city of Angers, court officials said today.

Those convicted and sentenced on Wednesday – a total of 62 people – have nearly two more weeks to appeal. The toughest sentences were 28-year prison terms.

Prosecutors said 45 children between the ages of six months and 14 years were raped and abused by their parents, grandparents or acquaintances in a working-class neighbourhood of Angers from 1999 to 2002 – at times in exchange for small amounts of money, food, alcohol or cigarettes.

Only three of the 65 defendants were acquitted.

Later today, the court is to decide on compensation for the victims. It will also rule on whether to strip defendants of their parental rights.