Palace of Versailles, airports, schools… What risk do the perpetrators of false bomb threats face?

“We don’t need agitators, we don’t need that these days! On the sidelines of a trip to Fleury-Mérogis prison (Essonne), Wednesday October 18, Eric Dupond-Moretti warned the authors of the false bomb threats. They “will be found” And “punished”promised the Minister of Justice.

In recent days, while France is at the maximum alert level of the Vigipirate plan, the Louvre Museum, the Palace of Versailles, numerous airports, as well as several educational establishments had to be evacuated after bomb threats or threatening messages suggesting an attack. Each time, the authorities must remove doubts before authorizing the public to re-enter the premises. But what risk do the perpetrators of these false bomb threats face in court?

Up to three years in prison

In accordance with article 322-13 of the Penal Code, the maximum penalty incurred for a false bomb threat – concerning adults – amounts to three years of imprisonment and a fine of 45,000 euros. “The threat, by any means whatsoever, to commit destruction, damage or deterioration is punishable by one year of imprisonment and a fine of 15,000 euros when made with the order to fulfill a condition.“, stipulates the text of the law. This article states that “LThe penalty is increased to three years’ imprisonment and a fine of 45,000 euros if it involves a threat of destruction, damage or deterioration dangerous to people..

Furthermore, as the departmental director of public security, Thierry Guiguet-Doron, explained to France Bleu Orléans two years ago, it is possible to “request compensation” to cover the costs generated by the hoaxes. At the time, he cited the case of the mobilization of dog teams, capable of detecting explosives. France Bleu specifies that in cas conviction of minors, their parents must pay these costs.