French prosecutors have reported that a 79-year-old former educator, identified as Jacques Leveugle, is facing charges of aggravated rape and sexual assault involving 89 minors. These alleged offenses span over 50 years and include incidents across multiple countries. During a press conference on Tuesday in Grenoble, public prosecutor Etienne Manteaux disclosed that Leveugle was formally charged in 2024 for crimes reportedly committed from 1967 to 2022.
Context of the Allegations
Leveugle, who was born in 1946 in Annecy, a town in the French Alps, has been in custody since his indictment. According to the prosecution, the accused worked as a freelance teacher and instructor throughout his career, which took him to various countries including Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, Niger, Algeria, the Philippines, India, and Colombia, in addition to New Caledonia, a French overseas territory. Manteaux explained that Leveugle’s professional background involved teaching the French language as well as instructing in speleology, which is the study and exploration of caves.
Discovery of Evidence
Investigators have identified at least 89 alleged victims based on extensive documentation compiled by Leveugle on a USB drive. The files contain references to what he characterized as “sexual relations” with minors aged between 13 and 17. The USB drive, pivotal to the ongoing investigation, was reportedly discovered by Leveugle’s nephew, who had expressed concern over his uncle’s emotional and sexual behavior. Manteaux noted that the content of the USB drive includes a collection of “15 volumes” that provide critical insight into the allegations.
Additional Confessions
In a surprising development, Manteaux also revealed that Leveugle confessed to the murders of two family members decades ago during police questioning. He admitted to suffocating his terminally ill mother with a pillow in the 1970s and later confessed to killing his 92-year-old aunt in the 1990s under similar circumstances. Leveugle’s personal writings, described as “memoirs,” contain statements acknowledging these acts.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Authorities have stated that the investigation remains active and they have invited anyone who may have relevant information or who might have been a victim to come forward and assist in the inquiry. The prosecutors have urged the public to help in shedding light on additional aspects of this case.
