Trial Commences for Former Senator
Former French Senator Joël Guerriau, 68, is currently standing trial in Paris, facing accusations of having drugged fellow parliamentarian Sandrine Josso, 50, with MDMA. The trial commenced on Monday, January 26, 2026, and is scheduled for two days. Guerriau is charged with administering a substance to a person without their knowledge to alter their discernment or control of their actions, with the intent to commit rape or sexual assault, as well as drug possession and use.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The alleged incident occurred in November 2023, when Ms. Josso visited Mr. Guerriau's apartment in Paris. She believed the invitation was for a celebration of his re-election. Ms. Josso reported feeling unwell shortly after consuming a glass of champagne served by Guerriau, experiencing symptoms such as heart palpitations and shivering. She recounted seeing Guerriau handle a small plastic sachet containing a white substance. Feeling terrified, she left the apartment and went to a hospital, where medical tests confirmed the presence of a substantial quantity of MDMA in her blood.
Accusations and Defense
Prosecutors have brought charges against Joël Guerriau for the secret administration of a substance intended to impair discernment for the purpose of sexual assault or rape, alongside charges for the use and possession of drugs. While Guerriau has admitted to serving Ms. Josso a drink spiked with MDMA, he maintains that it was an accident. His lawyer has previously stated that Guerriau 'will fight to prove that he never intended to administer a substance to his work colleague and longstanding friend to abuse her,' and that 'Joël Guerriau is not a predator.' He reportedly told investigators he believed he had procured a drug to induce euphoria, not ecstasy, to help with personal troubles.
Broader Implications and Josso's Advocacy
The case has drawn significant national attention in France, highlighting the issue of drug-facilitated sexual assault. Ms. Josso has become an outspoken advocate on the matter, contributing to a parliamentary investigation into drug-related crimes. Her experience has been linked to the landmark Gisèle Pelicot case, which also brought the prevalence of drug-facilitated sexual assault to the forefront in France. Joël Guerriau resigned from his senatorial post in October 2025, following his suspension from the centrist Horizons party in November 2023 after the charges were announced.
5 Comments
Comandante
This case sheds light on a horrifying reality for many women. So brave of her to speak out.
Africa
Seems like a rush to judgment. Let the court decide what truly happened.
Muchacho
No 'accident' here. He knew exactly what he was doing.
Coccinella
This case highlights the vulnerability people face when a substance is secretly administered. However, proving the specific purpose behind Guerriau's actions, whether for sexual assault or another reason, will be key to the verdict.
Bella Ciao
While Ms. Josso's advocacy is crucial for bringing attention to drug-facilitated assault, the court's focus will be on the specific details of Guerriau's actions and his stated intent, which he claims was not sexual.