In 1508, in Autun, France, a public accusation was made against rats.
Animal trials involving rats and mice were not uncommon in the Middle Ages and early modern period. A well-known case was the trial of rats before the court in Autun, France, in 1508. The city of Autun had suffered from a rat infestation that threatened crops and food supplies. The rats were held responsible for the damages and brought to trial. Although there are no records of the exact verdict, the city filed a public accusation against them.
