The issue of drug-facilitated sexual assault continues to surface in France as former senator Joël Guerriau stands trial, accused of drugging a fellow lawmaker with MDMA. This case follows the high-profile trial of Gisèle Pelicot, which highlighted the prevalence of such crimes in the country.
Allegations Against Joël Guerriau
Joël Guerriau, 68, allegedly administered MDMA, also known as ecstasy, to Sandrine Josso, a centrist lawmaker, during a gathering at his apartment in Paris in November 2023. Guerriau has confessed to serving the drug-laced champagne but claims it was unintentional.
Josso, aged 50, has become a vocal advocate against drug-facilitated assaults, having led a parliamentary investigation into related crimes. She reported feeling unwell soon after consuming the drink, with symptoms such as heart palpitations and shivering.
Following her symptoms, Josso sought medical attention, where tests revealed a significant amount of MDMA in her system, surpassing recreational levels. Her experience led her to take a medical leave, after which she shared her ordeal with fellow lawmakers.
“I went to a friend’s house to celebrate his re-election. I came out terrified,” Josso recounted. “I discovered an assailant. I then realized that I had been drugged without knowing it. That’s what we call drug-facilitated assault.”
Guerriau’s Defense
In court, Guerriau expressed regret over the incident, describing it as a “very serious” mistake. “I feel really sorry for Sandrine, that’s something I never wanted … I hope some day she’ll forgive me,” he stated.
Guerriau attributed the possession of MDMA to another unnamed senator, claiming he intended to use it for his depression and anxiety. He alleged that the mix-up occurred when he mistakenly offered Josso the drugged glass initially meant for himself.
Despite facing pressure, Guerriau maintained his Senate position for two years post-accusation, resigning only in October, citing political motivations unrelated to the legal proceedings.
Impact of the Pelicot Trial
Guerriau’s trial unfolds against the backdrop of the Gisèle Pelicot case, where Pelicot’s ex-husband and 50 others were convicted for sexual assaults committed under drugged conditions between 2011 and 2020. This case highlighted the intersection of pornography, digital communication, and the disregard for consent in perpetuating sexual violence.
Drug-facilitated assaults carry severe penalties in France, with potential prison sentences of up to five years, contrasting with a 10-year maximum for drug possession. Josso’s advocacy has led to increased legislative focus, including a report co-authored by her on drug-related sexual abuse.
Following the Pelicot trial, France introduced a law in October 2025 redefining rape and sexual assault, emphasizing non-consensual acts rather than the previous reliance on terms like “violence” or “threat.”
Global Awareness
The issue of drug-facilitated sexual assault is not confined to France. In the United States, the Bill Cosby case brought similar issues to light, involving the drugging of women for sexual assault. Cosby’s conviction was overturned in 2021, a decision that sparked significant public discourse.
Meanwhile, in the UK, Philip Young faces multiple charges for drugging and raping his ex-wife over 13 years, a case reminiscent of the challenges faced in France in addressing such crimes.
