Trial Begins in Cologne: HIV-Positive Man Accused of Rape

The trial has commenced in Cologne regarding two men accused of raping a fellow patient at the LVR Clinic. One of the accused is reportedly HIV-positive and was aware of his condition at the time of the alleged incident.

The prosecution claims that the two men lured the victim into a trap on a locked psychiatric ward. The events are said to have unfolded in a common room where, according to the prosecution, the men engaged with the woman under the pretense of dancing before committing the assault.

DNA evidence collected from the victim's clothing reportedly contained traces of both men, which has reinforced the prosecution's case. During the initial court proceedings, the victim was represented solely by her attorney as the defendants chose to remain silent throughout the session.

One of the defendants, Ivica J., corrected the presiding judge on his birth year but otherwise did not speak. His co-defendant, Anton K., displayed visible emotion, shedding tears during the proceedings. K. has been identified as a 37-year-old man who, unlike J., did not shield his face from cameras present in the courtroom.

According to the indictment, the men enticed the woman into the common area around 10:30 AM, where they engaged in dance before K. allegedly forced the victim to the ground and assaulted her while J. restrained her. It has been stated that J. filmed parts of the assault, which adds another layer to the charges against him.

At the time of the alleged assault, K. reportedly knew he was HIV-positive. This detail has been emphasized by the prosecution, which is pursuing charges not only for rape but also for attempted grievous bodily harm.

Witness accounts describe the victim as distressed and frightened, wearing a white patient gown at the time of the incident. She reportedly expressed her trauma verbally, stating feelings of violation.

The court has scheduled a total of twelve hearing days for this case, with the victim expected to testify at a later date. The proceedings have drawn considerable attention due to the severity of the allegations and the complexity surrounding the defendants' mental health backgrounds.