Worldwide abuse case spans decades and multiple countries.
Jacques Leveugle, a 79-year-old former French teacher, has been charged with the rape and sexual assault of 89 teenagers, with allegations dating back to the 1960s. The charges emerged after his nephew discovered a USB drive containing detailed accounts of his offences.
The Grenoble prosecutor, Etienne Manteaux, revealed the disturbing breadth of the case, with crimes allegedly committed across France, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, Niger, Algeria, the Philippines, India, Colombia, and New Caledonia. Leveugle allegedly used his position as an informal teacher at holiday camps to perpetrate these crimes.
Authorities made the rare decision to name Leveugle publicly, hoping unknown victims will come forward, as only about 40 have been identified so far. “If victims wish to come forward, now is the time,” urged Manteaux.
Leveugle was arrested in 2024, while residing in Morocco. His arrest followed his nephew's discovery of incriminating material on the USB, which allegedly contained extensive documentation of his sexual relations with minors.
The timeline of Leveugle’s movements, dating back to 1967, shows a pattern of travel and alleged abuse in multiple countries. He reportedly exploited his role as a tutor to engage with young people, leading to the charges he now faces.
Shockingly, Leveugle also confessed to killing his mother and aunt, claiming he smothered them with cushions during their terminal illnesses in 1974 and 1992. A separate investigation has been launched into these alleged murders.
Despite the statute of limitations covering alleged assaults before 1993, Manteaux stressed the importance of understanding the extent of Leveugle's actions. The detailed records found could be key in piecing together the full scope of his crimes.
This case draws parallels to other high-profile cases in France, where meticulous records kept by offenders have been instrumental in securing convictions. Such documentation has previously led to 20-year sentences in cases like those of Dominique Pélicot and former doctor Joêl Le Scouarnec.
As the investigation continues, French authorities are determined to ensure justice is served, highlighting the significance of evidence in prosecuting historical abuse cases.
Key Takeaways:
Jacques Leveugle charged with abuse across decades and countries.
Authorities name suspect to encourage more victims to come forward.
Separate investigation into Leveugle's alleged familial murders.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.10
