Jean-Claude Van Damme Faces Allegations of Human Trafficking in Romania

BUCHAREST, Romania — Belgian actor Jean-Claude Van Damme is facing serious allegations in Romania after a criminal complaint was filed with the Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) on April 2, 2025. The complaint accuses the 64-year-old actor of knowingly engaging in sexual relations with women who were trafficked by a criminal group led by Morel Bolea.

The alleged incidents reportedly took place over a decade ago during an event in Cannes, France, where Van Damme is said to have received five Romanian women as a “gift” and was aware of their background, according to details from the complaint.

Attorney Adrian Cuculis, representing one of the victims, stated that these women were in a “state of vulnerability” and raised concerns that they were exploited under Article 182 of Romania’s Criminal Code. “Several Romanians who are currently being investigated for forming a criminal group and pimping allegedly offered Jean-Claude Van Damme five Romanian women — photo models in Romania — for him to have sexual relations with. The person who received those benefits knew their condition,” Cuculis told reporters.

One witness, present at the event, reportedly provided testimony to prosecutors that led DIICOT to open a criminal investigation. This inquiry is linked to a broader investigation into human trafficking and exploitation of minors that began in 2020 by the Romanian Prosecutor’s Office, Cuculis noted.

Under Romanian law, the High Court of Cassation in France must authorize criminal proceedings since the alleged events occurred in Cannes. If granted, the suspects will be summoned to Romania for questioning, as reported by Antena 3.

As of now, neither Van Damme’s representatives nor DIICOT have publicly responded to requests for comment on the allegations.

Jean-Claude Van Damme gained fame with his breakout role in 1988’s “Bloodsport” and has since starred in numerous action films, including “Kickboxer,” “Double Impact,” and “The Expendables 2.” More recently, he voiced characters in 2022’s “Minions: Rise of Gru” and the upcoming film “The Gardener.” Despite his successes, these new allegations may significantly impact his long-standing career.