Overview
- The criminal trial opened at the tribunal correctionnel du Mans after charges including fraud, breach of trust, tax offences and money laundering were brought against Grégory Russel, Sidonie Grasset and their notary.
- Prosecutors requested three years' imprisonment on Tuesday as they argued investor funds sold via Groupements fonciers viticoles were diverted rather than used for the estate.
- Media and victim testimony describe more than 150 private investors, many retirees, who bought vineyard shares and claim combined losses exceeding €7 million.
- The defence says investor money was spent inside the estate companies on harvests, production and sales and asked for a full acquittal, while the defendants continue to deny personal enrichment.
- The case raises questions about sales tactics for GFV vineyard shares, the vulnerability of small private savers, and the potential for tighter oversight of such rural investment schemes.