In a startling revelation that has rocked the French political landscape, Joel Guerriou, a senator from the Loire-Atlantique region, faces preliminary charges over allegations of drugging a colleague with the intent of sexual assault. Paris Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the imposition of these initial accusations following a distressing incident involving another Senate member, Sandrine Josso.
Joel Guerreau and Sandrine Gosso-Source: AL-Arabiya
The 66-year-old senator was detained for 48 hours after suspicions arose of him spiking a drink with ecstasy, which he allegedly offered to Josso at his apartment last Tuesday evening. Josso reportedly felt unwell soon after and left the premises, an account backed by several French media outlets.
French Senator Joël Guerriau from Loire-Atlantique has been detained at his residence in Paris on allegations of providing drugs to a member of parliament for sexual assault. pic.twitter.com/NtHcBtjWU1
— gdh news (@gdhnews) November 18, 2023
Guerriou’s lawyer, Rémi Pierre Drai, has fervently denied any intention of assault on his client’s part, insisting that the incident was a regrettable mistake in judgment and not a premeditated act. Drai emphasized Guerriou’s integrity and respectability, vowing to restore his client’s and his family’s honor over time.
Legally, Guerriou faces charges of drug use and possession, along with dealing with a substance classified as an “alteration agent” with the intent of committing rape or sexual assault. While released from custody, the senator is under judicial supervision, barred from contacting the victim or witnesses as the investigation proceeds.
In response to these allegations, the centrist political group “Horizon” announced Guerriou’s suspension from the party, underscoring their zero-tolerance stance towards any form of sexual violence.
These “preliminary charges” in French law suggest strong suspicion of a crime by the investigating judge, although more time is granted before deciding on a trial. The unfolding events continue to send shockwaves through the French political circles, highlighting the ongoing struggle against sexual misconduct in high offices.
