In a significant turn of events, renowned French filmmaker Luc Besson has been definitively cleared of all charges in a highly publicized rape case involving Belgian-Dutch actor Sand Van Roy. The ruling, as issued by the Cour de Cassation, France’s highest court, on June 21, marks the final chapter in a protracted legal battle that has unfolded over several years.
After carefully examining the appeal and investigation files, the Cour de Cassation concluded that there were no grounds to admit the appeal. As part of the ruling, Van Roy has been ordered to pay Besson €2,500, further affirming the court’s decision. The ruling not only clears Besson of all charges but also prevents Van Roy from pursuing legal action against him on the same charges in France or any other European country
The case has undergone multiple legal proceedings since Van Roy first filed police complaints against Besson in May and July 2018. However, the Paris prosecutor dismissed the case in February 2019 due to insufficient evidence. Undeterred, Van Roy pursued a civil complaint on the same charges in March 2019, which met a similar fate when it was dismissed in December 2021 following an extensive three-year investigation. The investigation involved testimonies from witnesses, including Besson’s former wife Maïwenn and his former partner Anne Parillaud, as well as expert opinions and interrogation of Besson himself.
Renowned for directing iconic films such as Leon: The Professional and The Fifth Element, Besson is now poised to make a triumphant return to the director’s chair after a four-year hiatus. His upcoming drama DogMan, featuring Caleb Landry Jones, is expected to have its world premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival. Meanwhile, Besson’s company, EuropaCorp, underwent significant financial restructuring in 2020, with New York-based Vine Alternative Investment assuming control.
Leave a Comment