Angoulême Comic Festival Employee Files Rape Complaint: Investigation Delayed
Complaint Filed, Transmitted a Year Later
On February 12, 2024, a former employee of the Angoulême Comic Festival filed a rape complaint in Paris. Over a year later, on February 11, 2025, the complaint was finally transmitted to the local prosecutor’s office in Angoulême.
Alleged Incident and Delayed Investigation
The ex-employee alleges that she was raped on January 26, 2024, at an event organized during the festival. Since filing the complaint, she had received no updates on the investigation, according to her lawyer, Arié Alimi.
Upon inquiring about the status of the case with the Paris prosecutor’s office, Alimi was informed that it could not be found. "If the case has only just been transmitted, it means it is empty and that no investigative actions have been taken," Alimi stated.
Accusations Denied, Unfair Dismissal Alleged
The victim, who was dismissed by the festival’s organizing company, 9e Art+, on March 14, 2024, a month after filing the complaint, has filed a case with the Paris Labor Court contesting her dismissal, which she believes was in retaliation for reporting the rape.
The festival organization denies the accusations, claiming that it has never "failed" in its obligations towards the employee. In justifying its decision to dismiss her, the festival management cited "behavior incompatible with the company’s image" due to alleged repeated intoxication during the festival period, according to the employee’s legal claim.
Parallel Legal Actions
In addition to the criminal complaint, the victim has also filed a civil rape complaint with the examining magistrate in Angoulême. Furthermore, the Labor Inspection is investigating allegations of discriminatory dismissal and is expected to conduct hearings soon.
Concerns over Investigation and Delay
The delayed transmission of the complaint has raised concerns about the handling of the investigation. Alimi expressed frustration over the lack of progress, stating that the year-long delay has been "scandalous."
Organizations supporting victims of sexual violence have also criticized the delay, emphasizing the importance of prompt and thorough investigations. The victim’s lawyer has called for an acceleration of the investigation and the appointment of a specialized investigating magistrate to ensure a comprehensive inquiry.
Festival’s Response and Allegations of Misconduct
The Angoulême Comic Festival has maintained its denial of any wrongdoing. However, in addition to the rape allegations, seven young women have accused the same man of rape at the festival, raising further questions about the organization’s handling of inappropriate behavior.
The case has brought into focus the need for increased vigilance and accountability within the comic festival industry and the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment for all participants.
