French Cinema boss, Dominique Boutonnat, sentenced to 3-years in prison for sexual assault
Dominique Boutonnat, the head of France’s top cinema institution, the National Centre of Cinema (CNC), has been sentenced to three years in prison, with two years suspended, for sexually assaulting his godson in 2020.
The Nanterre criminal court outside Paris also ordered Boutonnat to serve his one-year jail term at home wearing an electronic bracelet.
Following the conviction, Boutonnat announced his resignation as head of the CNC, which plays a crucial role in overseeing measures to curb sexual violence in the film industry.
“I have decided to step down as president of the CNC, effective immediately,” Boutonnat said in a statement.
The court’s verdict comes after a trial that highlighted the allegations of sexual assault made by Boutonnat’s godson, who was a minor at the time of the incident. The prosecution presented evidence and testimony that led to Boutonnat’s conviction.
The sentence marks a significant milestone in France’s #MeToo movement, which has brought attention to the prevalence of sexual harassment and assault in various industries, including the film industry.
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The conviction and sentencing of a prominent figure like Boutonnat demonstrate the country’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
“I want to thank the court for its decision, which renders justice to the victim and acknowledges the seriousness of the facts,” said the prosecution lawyer. Boutonnat’s lawyer has announced plans to appeal the conviction.
The case has sparked a wider conversation about the need for greater accountability and support for victims of sexual assault in France and beyond.
As the film industry continues to grapple with issues of sexual misconduct, the conviction of Dominique Boutonnat serves as a reminder of the importance of taking allegations of sexual assault seriously and ensuring that those responsible face consequences for their actions.
