They said/We said: A conviction, but no jail time for John Galliano

Date September 8, 2011

Back to reality? John Galliano shot by Peter Stigter

Back to reality? John Galliano at his Couture show last year shot by Peter Stigter

John Galliano was convicted on racism charges earlier today, months after making racist and anti-Semitic remarks to patrons of a Paris café. Galliano was given a guilty sentence but will serve no jail time, a clear relief to him after facing a maximum sentence of six months incarcerated. The maximum fines he faced were €22,500 but the fines being reported are still all over the map—WWD reporting them at the highest of €17,500. Confirmed is the €1 to each of the two plaintiffs in the case, a symbolic compensation, alongside an apology.

An important factor in the case was the admission by Galliano of a serious substance-abuse problem—stemming from the stress caused by over-working—and the failure to even remember making such discriminating remarks. After his arrest, Galliano underwent treatment for his drinking and drug problem, and spoke out several times of his embarrassment and regret in making his prejudiced outbursts.

The sentence, along with the trial itself, has polarized the fashion world, who anxiously wait to hear what will happen to the future prospects of one of the most famous designers in the world.

THEY SAID….

Aurélien Hamelle, Galliano’s lawyer: “There is no penalty so to speak which is a very strong sign by the courts, because it shows the court took into account his sincere apology, the fact that Mr. Galliano undertook treatment for his addiction.” [The Cut]

@refinery29: “Galliano was just found guilty by a Paris Court. Someone’s Fashion Week is not starting off well.” [Twitter]

Jo Milloy, Galliano’s spokesperson: “Mr Galliano is relieved that the events of the last eight months have now been concluded,” Galliano’s spokesperson, Jo Milloy, told us this afternoon. “However this is not a time for celebration, and he remains apologetic for any offence that has been caused. He will continue to receive treatment for his illness and hopes in time to embrace a more positive future, based on forgiveness and understanding.” [Vogue UK]

Fashionista: “So the story of Galliano’s downfall finally comes to end. As he continues to seek treatment, hopefully he can restore his image, get clean, and go back to doing what he does best–making beautiful clothes.” [Fashionista]

WE SAID….

Bernadette Mora, editor: “Hopefully now John can put this terrible period of his life behind him and continue to find the strength to recover from his addictions. He still has a lot to give the fashion world.”