On Monday, January 5, 2026, a Paris court handed down sentences to 10 people for cyberbullying France’s first lady, Brigitte Macron. The group spread false rumors about her gender identity and criticized the age gap between her and President Emmanuel Macron, sparking intense online hate. 📱🚫
Brigitte, 72, and Emmanuel, 48, have been in the spotlight since 2017. The presiding judge described the claims of "alleged pedophilia" as "malicious, degrading, and insulting." Eight defendants received suspended prison terms of four to eight months, while a ninth got a six-month sentence in absentia. All were ordered to take an online hate-speech prevention course at their own cost.
Three main instigators even saw their social media accounts suspended for six months. Among them was Aurelien Poirson-Atlan, known online as "Zoe Sagan," whose conspiracy-driven posts drew the harshest reaction: an eight-month suspended sentence plus account suspension.
Jean Ennochi, Brigitte Macron’s lawyer, told reporters: "The most important things are the prevention courses and the suspension of some of the accounts." He hopes these measures will deter future digital attacks on public figures.
Tiphaine Auziere, Brigitte’s daughter, shared how the attacks affected her mother’s health: "She’s always mindful of her image because she knows it can be distorted." This case highlights the emotional toll of online harassment and the importance of accountability. 💪
As France steps up its fight against digital hate speech, this verdict sends a message: spreading hate and fake rumors online can have real consequences. For young netizens, it’s a reminder to protect each other and champion truth on social media. 🌐✌️
Reference(s):
French court sentences 10 over cyber-harassment of Brigitte Macron
cgtn.com
