A security guard in France is facing prosecution after allegedly leaking a disturbing video that captured the sexual assault of a disabled man in a mall bathroom. The incident, which occurred at the Atlantis shopping center in Nantes, involved an Algerian man who is now charged with rape.
The leaked footage shows the 25-year-old victim, who has a severe mental disability, being attacked after his mother left him alone to use the restroom on November 22. When her son failed to return, she went to check and discovered the assault in progress. The suspect was arrested shortly after and is now in custody.
The video first surfaced on social media, where it was widely shared, sparking outrage both in France and internationally. Popular X accounts, including activist Eva Vlaardingerbroek, brought attention to the case, with millions of views on posts discussing the crime. However, some original posts were removed or deleted, though the footage remains accessible through other accounts.
The 23-year-old security guard accused of leaking the video now faces serious repercussions. He has been barred from entering the Atlantis mall, banned from working in the security industry, and charged with invasion of privacy and breaching the confidentiality of an investigation.
The guard appeared in court on December 13 and requested additional time to prepare his defense. Under judicial supervision until his trial on January 24, 2025, he is prohibited from contacting the victim or working in any security-related role.
The victim’s family, reportedly shocked and distressed by the release of the video, has yet to comment publicly on the security guard’s actions. Meanwhile, the case continues to draw significant public attention, highlighting concerns about privacy, justice, and the handling of such sensitive incidents.
As the trial approaches, the incident has reignited debates about how to balance accountability with respect for victims’ privacy in cases of publicized crimes.
