Former French Spy Chief Convicted for Misusing Public Funds to Aid LVMH

Bernard Squarcini, ex-head of France's domestic intelligence, was sentenced for influence-peddling and surveillance activities benefiting the luxury conglomerate.

Bernard Squarcini, known as 'the Shark,' received a four-year sentence, with two years suspended, and a €200,000 fine for abusing his position to benefit LVMH.
Squarcini was found guilty of using public resources to investigate a 2008 blackmail attempt targeting LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault, Europe's richest man.
He also conducted unlawful surveillance on François Ruffin, a journalist-turned-politician, during the production of a critical documentary about LVMH.
LVMH avoided prosecution by settling the case in 2021 with a €10 million payment, while Arnault denied any knowledge of Squarcini's illegal activities.
Squarcini plans to appeal the verdict, which includes a five-year ban on intelligence-related professional activities and home confinement with an electronic tag.