Cyprus Times

Former French Senator Found Guilty of Drugging MP for Sexual Assault

Published January 28, 2026, 12:10
Former French Senator Found Guilty of Drugging MP for Sexual Assault

A former French senator, Joel Guerriau, has been found guilty of drugging and sexually assaulting a member of parliament. The court rejected the defense's claim that the administration of the substance was accidental, convicting him of intending to commit sexual assault. Guerriau had already resigned from his position as senator due to the case. The case sparked widespread outrage in France, recalling a similar conviction for rape and drugging. Guerriau was sentenced to four years in prison, with half suspended, and the execution of the sentence was postponed pending an appeal. The MP testified that she felt unwell after consuming champagne offered by Guerriau and feared for her safety. The court found that Guerriau's behavior and online searches proved his intent.