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A former French senator was found guilty in a Paris court late on Tuesday of allegedly attempting to sexually assault a lawmaker’s drink.
In its ruling, the court rejected the defense’s argument that Joel Guerreia, 68, may have “unwittingly” coerced or sexually assaulted lawyer Sandrine Joso by administering a “substance to her awareness or control over her actions.”
Guerreo, who resigned as senator in October 2025 over the case, was found guilty of possession and gratuity.
In the year Following the conviction in 2024, the case resonated in France Dominic PellicoteHe was found guilty of repeatedly drugging and raping his wife, Gisele, while she was unconscious, and inviting dozens of guests.
Pellicote’s trial attracted international headlines and raised awareness of drug-facilitated attacks.
Due to the “particular gravity of the crimes committed and the unwitting pleasure caused to Sandrine Joso”, the court sentenced Guerreria to four years in prison with two-and-a-half suspended – meaning he will not go to prison if he appeals the sentence.
One of his lawyers said Guerriau intends to appeal. “The argument will continue in front of the appeals court, especially since my client is contesting the full intent of assault,” Henri Carpentier told Reuters.
Josso told investigators she didn’t feel well after taking a few sips of a glass of champagne offered to her by Gerio at his apartment to celebrate his election victory.
She said the champagne didn’t have the usual taste and she was sure the geriatrics would have attacked her if she hadn’t been able to leave the apartment.
In its decision, the court stated that the intent of rape or sexual assault can be inferred from several factors; These include Guerría’s Josso asking for a euphoric drink, his unusual and inappropriate behavior, and an exploration of drugs and their effects in terms of sexual assault.