On September 26, 2026, the Court of Appeal in Créteil, France, delivered a 10-year prison sentence to Moroccan artist Saad Lamjarred on charges of rape. This sentence is more severe than the 6-year term he received in 2023 from the Paris Criminal Court. The court's decision comes after a lengthy trial that drew significant attention due to Lamjarred's popularity across Morocco and the Arab world.
Saad Lamjarred, 41, was found guilty of raping a woman while under the influence of alcohol, a circumstance that aggravated the charges. The prosecution had initially sought an 8-year sentence. Following the appeals court's verdict, Lamjarred's legal team announced plans to contest the decision before the Court of Cassation, France's highest court.
The case against Lamjarred has been closely followed by fans and the media, given his widespread fame. His music has garnered a significant following not only in Morocco but also across the Arab world and beyond. The allegations against him date back to an incident that led to his initial arrest and subsequent trial.
Lamjarred's defense team, including lawyer Mery Bourguignon, expressed disappointment with the appeals court's decision. They argued that the evidence did not sufficiently support the charges of rape. The legal proceedings have been complex, with multiple hearings and appeals, reflecting the case's high profile and the seriousness of the allegations.
The verdict from the Créteil Court of Appeal marks a significant development in the case, highlighting the French judicial system's handling of high-profile criminal cases involving celebrities. The decision to uphold and increase the initial sentence underscores the court's consideration of the aggravating circumstances surrounding the crime.
Saad Lamjarred's sentencing has sparked reactions from fans and supporters, who continue to express their belief in his innocence. The case has also raised broader questions about the accountability of public figures and the processes of the French justice system in dealing with allegations of sexual assault.
As Lamjarred prepares to take his case to the Court of Cassation, the final stage of appeal in the French judicial system, his supporters and legal team remain hopeful for a favorable outcome. The case continues to draw attention to issues of justice, celebrity status, and the complexities of legal proceedings in France.
Key points
- The French appeals court upgraded Saad Lamjarred's sentence to 10 years in prison for rape, citing aggravating circumstances.
- Lamjarred's legal team plans to appeal the decision to the Court of Cassation.
- The case has garnered significant attention due to Lamjarred's popularity and the serious nature of the allegations.
