The investigation into rape and sexual assault against Jean Lassalle dismissed

There is a lack of material evidence to prove the facts denounced by a 45-year-old woman and “does not establish the existence of a criminal offense”.

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franceinfo – with France Bleu Béarn Bigorre

Radio France

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The European candidate says he is "relieved" of this decision of the Prosecutor's Office.  (RICHARD BRUNEL / MAXPPP)

The investigation into rape and sexual assault targeting Jean Lassalle has been closed, the Bordeaux prosecutor’s office told France Bleu Béarn Bigorre on Friday March 29. “The investigations do not make it possible to establish the existence of a criminal offense”specifies the prosecution.

In this case, a 45-year-old woman had filed a complaint against Jean Lassalle, accusing him of acts dating back to 2010 in a hotel room in Bordeaux during the regional election campaign. According to her, the former Béarnais MP had sexually assaulted and raped her. An investigation was opened on May 3, 2023.

According to information from France Bleu Béarn Bigorre, material elements are missing to prove the facts denounced. Jean Lassalle confides to France Bleu Béarn Bigorre to be “relieved” upon hearing the news, claiming that he is innocent and has no “never raped anyone”. For the former candidate for the presidential elections of 2017 and 2022, this affair was heavy. “Put yourself in my place. It’s still the kind of accusation likely to land you in court and land you in prison. It’s a crime. So what a relief to be free of it”he adds.

In June, Jean Lassalle will lead the “Rural Alliance” list in the European elections, with the head of the hunters’ federation Willy Schraen.


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