Ten Men Charged in France Over Alleged Abuse of Five-Year-Old at Drug-Fuelled Party

French prosecutors have charged ten men in connection with the alleged rape and sexual abuse of a five-year-old boy at a drug-fuelled sex party in Lille, northern France.

The suspects, aged between 29 and 50, are accused of a range of offences linked to child sexual abuse and the use of chemical substances. Prosecutors said the child was allegedly brought to the gathering by his father, who is also under investigation.

According to a statement from the Lille public prosecutor’s office, the boy was “brought into contact with adult males by his own father” and subjected to acts of sexual violence, with allegations aggravated by the administration of drugs.

Investigators said the offences occurred between November 2024 and February 14, 2025. The case was formally referred to an investigating judge on February 22, 2025, but reporting restrictions meant details could only now be made public.

The charges include rape and sexual assault involving the administration of substances, as well as allegations of acts carried out with particular cruelty. Prosecutors also confirmed the investigation covers the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material via electronic networks.

Of the ten men charged, nine have been placed in custody. Authorities said one key suspect died by suicide while in detention on June 21 last year.

The child has since been placed in the care of his mother and is receiving specialist support. Prosecutors noted that the father and mother were already separated before the alleged offences took place.

The investigation has expanded beyond Lille, leading to additional arrests in other parts of France as authorities continue to examine related offences. Under French law, rape involving acts of torture or extreme violence can carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.