Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy was granted bail and exited prison, but remains under judicial supervision as an appeal trial is set for March 2025.
Released on Bail, Still Supervised
Seventy‑year‑old Nicolas Sarkozy was allowed to leave La Santé prison just minutes after a court decision citing low risk of reoffending and escape. He was escorted by a convoy of police officers. Despite his release, he is still subject to court supervision while eager to participate in the upcoming appeal trial.
Legal Context and Court Rationale
The judge justified the bail on judicial principles and the assessment that Sarkozy posed minimal danger. His lawyer, Christophe Ingrain, said this is a preliminary step before the next phase of the legal process.
Conditions Imposed on Sarkozy
The court banned Sarkozy from traveling abroad or communicating with other defendants in the case. He was also prohibited from contacting the Minister of Justice and a former aide, Gérald Darnain, who recently visited him in prison—an action that sparked controversy.
Background of the Original Conviction
In September, Sarkozy was convicted of conspiracy to secure money from Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance his 2007 presidential campaign. The sentencing stemmed from allegations that he and associates sought Libyan funding for campaign expenses.
