Cédric Flaction, teh wine merchant at the center of a high-profile fraud case, received an aggravated sentence following his appeal trial, according to reporting from Le Temps.The verdict marks a notable advancement in a case that has shaken the Swiss wine industry and raised questions about authenticity and consumer trust.
Flaction was initially tried and convicted of adulterating his wines with cheaper, foreign vintages-a practice he vehemently denied.During the second instance trial last July, prosecutors sought a five-year prison sentence, while the defense argued for a full stay of the sentence. The cantonal judges ultimately rejected the defense’s plea, increasing the severity of the original punishment.
The case revolves around allegations that Flaction misrepresented the origin and quality of his wines, deceiving customers and damaging the reputation of Swiss viticulture. He consistently maintained his innocence, asserting he never intentionally mixed his wines with foreign varieties. The appeal trial focused on re-examining evidence related to the alleged fraud and the extent of Flaction’s involvement.
The increased sentence signals the court’s firm stance against wine fraud and its commitment to protecting the integrity of the swiss wine market. Further details regarding the specific length of the aggravated sentence were not immediately available, but the ruling is expected to have lasting implications for Flaction and the future of wine regulation in the region.
