Swedish Man on Trial for Allegedly Coercing Wife into Sex with Over 120 Men
Accusations of Coercion and Control
A 61-year-old Swedish man is currently on trial, facing grave charges of coercing his now ex-wife into providing sexual services to over 120 men. The prosecution contends that the defendant leveraged the isolation of their farm near Kramfors, northern Sweden, alongside the use of surveillance cameras and drugs, to compel his wife into sexual acts with individuals he sourced online.
The accused vehemently denies any wrongdoing, asserting that the encounters were consensual and that his involvement was limited to organisation. This high-profile case has already attracted significant international scrutiny, with some drawing parallels to the notorious Dominique Pelicot trial in France.
Trial Commences Amidst Strict Confidentiality
The trial commenced in Härnösand, a town on Sweden's eastern coast, with the defendant reportedly impassive as the charges were read. The court subsequently moved into a closed session to safeguard the identities of both the alleged victim, who has since divorced her husband, and the defendant.
Prosecutors allege that the coercive behaviour began in 2022, with the man forcing his wife into paid sexual relations with men travelling from across Sweden. This alleged abuse only ceased when she reported the matter to the police in October 2025. He faces numerous charges, including multiple counts of rape, attempted rape, and assault. The prosecution intends to demonstrate how he exploited her vulnerable situation and fear to normalise his control, using drugs and their secluded home to further his alleged scheme. Surveillance footage from their home, which reportedly captured some encounters, will be presented as evidence. Additionally, public broadcaster SVT reports that the indictment includes threats against his wife's life, such as burning and dismemberment.
Evidence and Defence
While over 120 men have been identified by Swedish authorities in connection with the case, only 28 have been charged to date. Most of these men are said to deny the allegations, claiming either no sexual contact or no payment for it. The prosecution plans to submit online chats, payment records, and calendar entries as evidence. The defence counsel, Martina Michaelsdotter Olsson, stated at the outset of the trial that her client does not recognise the prosecution's depiction of events. The trial is scheduled to run for 14 days.
