Republicans boss Eric Ciotti targeted by new investigation for embezzlement of public funds

Éric Ciotti est visé par une nouvelle enquête pour détournement de fonds publics. Vincent Isore – IP3/MAXPPP

Il s’agit de la troisième enquête pour détournement de fonds publics visant Éric Ciotti, le patron des Républicains.

A new investigation into misappropriation of public funds targeting Republican president Éric Ciotti during his campaign for the 2022 legislative elections was opened by the Nice prosecutor's office, according to information from franceinfo published this Monday, June 17 2024.

The investigation was opened on May 31. It follows the report of a representative of the anti-corruption association Anticor . The latter was himself a candidate in the 2022 legislative elections but in another constituency in the Alpes-Maritimes.

Parking cards in question

According to franceinfo, the report concerns the misuse of parking cards at the port of Nice made available free of charge by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry to relatives of the MP LR, in conjunction with the Departmental Council. According to the association, at least eight cards were used.

Third investigation

This is the third investigation targeting the outgoing MP LR. Another preliminary investigation for embezzlement of public funds was opened in January 2024. It concerns suspicions of multiple jobs at the departmental council.

Last November, the National Financial Prosecutor's Office also opened an investigation, notably for embezzlement of public funds, relating to the jobs held by his ex-wife, Caroline Magne.