Summary

The trial is not about whether or not Stéphane is guilty, as he has already signed numerous confessions, rather, it is about determining his sentence. His lawyer is arguing that because Stéphane's crimes were nonviolent, and he was not seeking monetary gain, that he deserves a light sentence. Only two witnesses are called in the case. The first is Christian Meichler, the framer and friend, who serves as a character witness, humanizing Stéphane. Stéphane's father, Roland, also testifies. He helps explain how Stéphane's difficult childhood may have impacted him psychologically, and led to his thieving. The prosecution tells the court not to buy the story of Stéphane as a hurt little boy, that he was a fully conscious and deliberate adult who would happily return to his thieving ways. Stéphane promises never to steal again once...