(Read) Ten people stand trial in France accused of cyberbullying first lady Brigitte Macron

Ten individuals are set to stand trial in France, accused of engaging in cyberbullying against Brigitte Macron, the wife of the French president.

The defendants face allegations of disseminating unfounded claims regarding her gender and sexuality, as well as making derogatory comments about the 24-year age difference between Brigitte and her husband, Emmanuel Macron. If convicted, they could face sentences of up to two years in prison.

Among those appearing in court this week are an elected official, a gallery owner, and a teacher, as reported by French media.

Two of the defendants, self-styled independent journalist Natacha Rey and internet fortune-teller Amandine Roy, were previously found guilty of slander for alleging that France's first lady did not exist and that her brother, Jean-Michel Trogneux, had transitioned and adopted her name. However, a court of appeals later overturned their convictions, determining that their statements did not amount to defamation. Mrs. Macron and her brother are currently appealing this decision.

Conspiracy theories suggesting that Brigitte Macron is a transgender woman have circulated since her husband won the presidency in 2017. These unfounded claims have gained traction in the United States, largely promoted by right-wing influencer Candace Owens.

In July, the Macrons initiated a lawsuit against Owens, accusing her of ignoring credible evidence that disproves her claims while giving a platform to known conspiracy theorists and individuals with a history of defamation.