Pilarski Death Trial Enters Second Day as Ellul Challenges Forensics and Hunt Timeline

Overview

• Christophe Ellul went on trial in Soissons on March 3 for aggravated involuntary manslaughter and faces up to 10 years in prison and a €150,000 fine.
• On day one, the court heard tense exchanges over a text Ellul sent reading 'Je le fais piquer' and questions about whether Curtis wore a muzzle.
• Investigators presented DNA findings identifying Curtis on the victim and none from hunt hounds, along with bite-mark measurements matching the dog's dentition.
• Judges examined phone data and hunting records indicating the hounds set off after the estimated time of death and in another sector of the Forêt de Retz.
• Ellul continues to dispute the expert reports and points to hunt hounds, while Curtis remains isolated in a Haute-Garonne shelter with his fate dependent on the verdict.