French doctor charged with poisoning 17 patients

A French doctor already under investigation for poisoning seven patients has been charged with poisoning 17 more people at a clinic in eastern France, one of his lawyers said.

Frederic Pechier, 47, now stands charged in 24 cases, nine of which resulted in death, after working as an anaesthesiologist at two private clinics in Besancon.

If convicted, Mr. Pechier could face a life sentence. He was freed last night on conditional release.