Nicolas Sarkozy definitively convicted in the wiretapping case: a judicial turning point for the former president

The Cour de cassation confirmed, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, the conviction of Nicolas Sarkozy in the so-called “wiretapping” or “Paul Bismuth” case. The former president of the Republic has been definitively found guilty of corruption and influence peddling. This decision marks a first in French judicial history, as no former head of state has ever been sentenced to such a penalty.

A definitive conviction and multiple penalties

Nicolas Sarkozy has been sentenced to three years in prison, including one year to be served under house arrest with an electronic bracelet. His sentence also includes a three-year ineligibility, barring him from running for any electoral office. The arrangement for the electronic bracelet will be decided by a judge for the enforcement of sentences (JAP), who will summon Nicolas Sarkozy within a month to determine the terms.

This conviction stems from a “corruption pact” established in 2014 between Nicolas Sarkozy, his lawyer Thierry Herzog, and Gilbert Azibert, then a magistrate at the Cour de cassation. Azibert was allegedly solicited to influence proceedings in exchange for support for a prestigious post in Monaco. All three individuals, found guilty, received similar sentences. Thierry Herzog was additionally banned from practicing law for three years.

A case with multiple twists

Since the beginning of the case, Nicolas Sarkozy, who will turn 70 in January, has maintained his innocence. His defense presented 20 arguments before the Cour de cassation during the hearing on November 6, all of which were dismissed by the court. His lawyer announced plans to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to contest the decision.

Other judicial proceedings ahead

The former president is also facing other legal challenges. Beginning January 6, 2025, he is scheduled to appear for four months before the Paris court to answer allegations of illegal Libyan funding of his 2007 presidential campaign. The charges include passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, criminal conspiracy, and embezzlement of public Libyan funds. He faces up to ten years in prison and five years of ineligibility.

Additionally, Nicolas Sarkozy is awaiting the decision of the Cour de cassation in 2025 concerning his appeal against his conviction in the Bygmalion case. This case involves excessive spending during his 2012 campaign, for which he was sentenced to one year in prison, including six months to be served, on appeal.

A new judicial chapter

The definitive conviction in the wiretapping case represents a turning point for the former Élysée resident. It illustrates the rigor of French judicial institutions when addressing the highest offices and marks a key stage in the many legal cases that continue to surround Nicolas Sarkozy.