The gates of Paris's La Santé prison witnessed extraordinary scenes today as Nicolas Sarkozy, France's former president, began serving a five-year sentence for corruption and influence peddling.
A Spectacle of Disgrace
Crowds gathered outside the notorious prison walls, creating an almost surreal atmosphere as the 69-year-old former head of state arrived to begin his sentence. The moment marked a dramatic fall from grace for the man who once occupied the Élysée Palace.
Emotional family support came in the form of visits from Sarkozy's sons, 28-year-old Louis and 24-year-old Pierre, who were seen arriving at the prison to comfort their father during his first hours of incarceration.
The Prison Reading List
In a revealing insight into his state of mind, Sarkozy disclosed he's bringing Victor Hugo's masterpiece Les Misérables with him to prison. The choice seems particularly poignant given the novel's themes of justice, redemption, and social injustice.
The conviction stems from what prosecutors called the "Paul Bismuth affair," where Sarkozy was found guilty of attempting to bribe a magistrate in exchange for information about another investigation involving him.
From Élysée to Incarceration
This historic moment makes Sarkozy the first French former president in modern history to serve actual prison time, rather than receiving a suspended sentence or house arrest. The five-year term includes two years that are suspended, meaning he's expected to serve three years behind bars.
The scene outside La Santé prison reflected the polarizing nature of Sarkozy's legacy, with some supporters expressing sympathy while others saw it as long-overdue accountability for political corruption.
As France watches this unprecedented chapter in its political history unfold, the image of a former president passing through prison gates serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law.
