Nicolas Sarkozy Starts Historic Prison Sentence

Paris, France – Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy arrived at La Santé prison in Paris on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, to begin serving a five-year sentence for criminal conspiracy linked to the financing of his 2007 presidential campaign with funds from Libya. This marks the first time a former modern French head of state has been imprisoned, making it a landmark moment in France’s political history.

Sarkozy, 70, was accompanied by his wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy as they left their home. He embraced her before entering a police vehicle that took him to the notorious prison. On the way, he released a statement on social media, insisting that “an innocent man” was being locked up.

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Conviction Details and Legal Context

Sarkozy was convicted last month of criminal conspiracy for allegedly using his position as president and interior minister to secure campaign funds from Libya under Moammar Gadhafi between 2005 and 2007.

The Paris court ruled that he would begin serving his sentence immediately, without waiting for his appeal, citing the “seriousness of the disruption to public order caused by the offense.” Sarkozy contests both the conviction and the unusual decision to incarcerate him pending appeal. His lawyers have filed a request for immediate release.

“It’s an ominous day for him, for France, and for our institutions, because this incarceration is a disgrace,” said Sarkozy’s lawyer Jean-Michel Darrois.

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Prison Conditions and Daily Life

Sarkozy will serve his sentence in solitary confinement for security reasons. He is permitted one hour outdoors daily and three family visits per week.

Preparing for life behind bars, Sarkozy packed three books—the maximum allowed—including Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo, and brought warm clothing and earplugs. Lawyers noted that he plans to write a book about his prison experience.

“He doesn’t complain, hasn’t asked for anything, no special treatment,” said lawyer Christophe Ingrain.

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Public Reaction and Support

Sarkozy’s transfer from the Élysée Palace to La Santé prison captured the attention of France. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside his home, chanting his name and displaying French flags with messages such as “Courage Nicolas, return soon.”

Family members, including children and grandchildren, joined in support. Supporters voiced disbelief and outrage over the incarceration:

• Virginie Rochon, 44: “It’s scandalous to see a former president taken away while still presumed innocent.”
• Véronique Maurey, 50: “Calling it a ‘criminal conspiracy’ makes all of us feel like criminals too.”

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Meeting with Current President Emmanuel Macron

Last week, President Emmanuel Macron hosted Sarkozy at the presidential palace. Macron stressed the independence of France’s judiciary but described the meeting as a humane gesture.

“It was normal on a human level to receive one of my predecessors in this context,” Macron said.

Sarkozy has been retired from active politics for years but retains significant influence in conservative political circles.

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Next Steps in the Appeal Process

Under the ruling, Sarkozy may request release to the appeals court only once while serving his sentence. Judges have up to two months to process the request.

Sarkozy has vowed to fight the conviction until the end, stating last week:

“I’m not afraid of prison. I’ll hold my head high, including in front of the doors of La Santé. I’ll fight till the end.”