Luc Besson case: Paris court of appeal considers reopening rape investigation

Tuesday 23 June 2026 - 09:00

The Paris Court of Appeal is expected to rule on Tuesday on whether to reopen a rape investigation involving French filmmaker Luc Besson, following a legal request that introduces new forensic elements in a case closely associated with France’s #MeToo movement.

The proceedings concern allegations made by actress Sand Van Roy, who accused Besson of rape. The case had previously been closed without further prosecution, but recent developments have prompted renewed judicial scrutiny.

New evidence under examination

At the center of the appeal is DNA evidence reportedly identified on an item of clothing belonging to the complainant. According to the public prosecutor’s office, forensic analysis conducted by a laboratory in the Netherlands could constitute new elements strong enough to justify reopening the investigation.

Legal representatives supporting the appeal argue that the biological material found on the garment represents a significant factual development that was not properly assessed during the initial investigation phase. They also claim that earlier forensic procedures did not fully examine the item in question.

Court weighs legal threshold for reopening case

During closed-door hearings held earlier this month, prosecutors expressed mixed views, acknowledging the potential relevance of the new findings while questioning whether they meet the legal standard required to reopen a case that has already been closed.

The court must determine whether the evidence qualifies as “new charges” under French criminal procedure law, a condition necessary to restart judicial investigations after a definitive dismissal.

Defense maintains silence pending ruling

Legal representatives for Luc Besson have declined to comment ahead of the decision. His defense team has previously emphasized the procedural history of the case, noting that the allegations were dismissed in 2019, followed by a non-prosecution ruling in 2021, which was later upheld on appeal in 2022 and confirmed by France’s highest court in 2023.

A high-profile case in the #MeToo context

The case has drawn sustained public attention due to its prominence within the broader #MeToo movement in France, which has brought increased scrutiny to allegations of sexual misconduct within the cultural and entertainment industries.

If the court decides to reopen the investigation, the case could return to the investigative phase, potentially leading to further questioning, expert analysis, and renewed judicial proceedings.

The ruling is expected to clarify whether the new forensic elements are sufficient to override previous judicial decisions and restart the legal process.