Investigations into Parisian daycare centers and schools: Public prosecutor's office examines the role of Hidalgo and Grégoire

In the extensive investigation into suspected violence at kindergartens and primary schools in Paris, the public prosecutor's office is also examining possible misconduct by Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire and his predecessor Anne Hidalgo.

The Paris public prosecutor Laure Beccuau told the France Inter broadcaster that it is being investigated whether there is not only political but also criminal responsibility on the part of the city hall leadership. There are currently around 235 investigations into cases of possible physical and sexual violence affecting 184 facilities.

The public prosecutor spoke of “a real legal tsunami” that the investigations in her office had triggered. Affected families should receive support throughout the lengthy investigation and the entire legal process so that they do not become victims again.

For months, parents and politicians in Paris have been disturbed by reports of allegations of violence and alleged abuse in after-school care - and that the allegations have apparently not always been consistently investigated. Dozens of student counselors have been suspended from work since the beginning of the year.

The new mayor Grégoire announced an action plan worth 20 million euros, which includes rapid and transparent reporting of suspected cases, the involvement and support of parents and structural improvements.