Nicolas Sarkozy Becomes First Former President Imprisoned in France

Paris, France — Nicolas Sarkozy, the former president of France, has officially begun his prison sentence, marking a historic event as the first ex-president to be incarcerated in the country. He was sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in Libyan financial dealings related to his 2007 presidential campaign.

Today, at 10:41 AM, Sarkozy entered the Santé prison in Paris. As part of the intake process, he underwent standard procedures. This included taking his fingerprints, having a photograph taken, and receiving a prisoner identification number. Additionally, he was required to surrender his personal belongings and underwent a complete search.

Prior to his incarceration, at 10:24 AM, Sarkozy’s son addressed supporters gathered outside their family home, thanking them for their solidarity. “Your presence sustains us. Our father is an innocent man,” he stated.

At 10:09 AM, Sarkozy’s attorney, Christophe Ingrain, informed reporters about Sarkozy’s state of mind, noting that he faced his situation with strength and without requesting special treatment. Ingrain emphasized that a formal request for release had already been submitted, arguing there was no risk of reoffending or tampering with evidence.

As his legal team advocates for his release, lawyer Jean-Michel Darrois criticized the circumstances surrounding Sarkozy’s sentencing, labeling it a “judicial acrobatic” and a disgrace to France.

Earlier today, at 09:43 AM, Sarkozy left his home, accompanied by his wife, Carla Bruni, and was greeted by supporters chanting his name. He expressed his thoughts through a message on social media, declaring, “It’s not a former president who is being imprisoned today; it’s an innocent man.”

Critics of the judicial process express concerns about the implications of Sarkozy’s incarceration on public trust in state institutions. Prominent politicians and figures have voiced their perspectives on the significance of this unprecedented event in French history.

The former president’s attorneys expect a swift decision from the appeals court regarding the request for liberation within a two-month period. In the meantime, Sarkozy will remain under strict conditions in his cell, isolated from other detainees.