Mon Sep 08 09:50:17 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:

**French Doctor on Trial, Accused of Poisoning Patients to Showcase Resuscitation Skills**

**Besançon, France – September 8, 2025** – A French anesthesiologist, Frederic Pechier, 53, went on trial today in Besançon, accused of intentionally poisoning 30 patients, including children, between 2008 and 2017. Twelve of those patients died. Prosecutors allege Pechier induced cardiac arrests to demonstrate his resuscitation skills and discredit colleagues at two clinics in the city.

The case, described as unprecedented in French legal history, has rocked the medical community. Pechier denies the charges, stating before the hearing that he is “not responsible” for the distress of the alleged victims and their families.

The investigation began in 2017 after a series of suspicious cardiac arrests during routine surgeries on low-risk patients. Authorities suspect Pechier tampered with anesthesia bags and paracetamol solutions to create emergency situations. The youngest victim was a four-year-old child undergoing a tonsillectomy, while the oldest was 89. An autopsy of one victim revealed an overdose of lidocaine.

During the trial, lasting until December, the court will examine each alleged poisoning. Pechier’s defense team is expected to argue for acquittal, claiming the prosecution lacks sufficient proof. One of Pechier’s lawyers stated, “It’s very easy to accuse people, it’s harder to prove things.”

More than 150 civil parties will be represented at the trial, including family members who have waited years for answers. The trial is anticipated to be lengthy and complex, with both the prosecution and civil parties asserting their readiness. Pechier faces a potential life sentence if convicted.

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