An Algerian migrant has been formally indicted and placed in detention following the alleged rape of a young disabled man at a shopping center near Nantes.
The assault reportedly took place around 3 p.m. on Friday in the public toilets of the Atlantis shopping center in Saint-Herblain.
The victim’s mother, worried when her 25-year-old son failed to return from the restrooms, went to look for him and learned of the sexual assault. She swiftly alerted mall security who identified the man and detained him until the police arrived and took him into custody.
The Atlantis shopping center’s extensive surveillance system is playing a crucial role in the investigation. “Our toilet halls and bathroom areas are filmed,” said Alexandra Farci, the center’s director, expressing deep concern for the victim and his mother.
According to Ouest France, investigators from the local judicial police are examining surveillance footage to corroborate the details of the case. The public prosecutor of Nantes, Renaud Gaudeul, disclosed that the suspect — a 36-year-old Algerian national who is homeless and living in France illegally — was found to be under the influence of alcohol and narcotics at the time of the alleged assault.
The suspect, who remains in custody, was charged with rape under aggravated circumstances, citing both the vulnerability of the victim and the suspect’s state of intoxication. The charges highlight the gravity of the case, with authorities emphasizing the severe impact on the victim, a young man described as highly vulnerable due to his mental health condition.
Farci praised the dedication of mall security in responding to the situation and preventing the suspect’s escape. “Our thoughts are particularly with the victim and his mother,” she added.
The public prosecutor has not disclosed further details regarding the suspect’s statements but confirmed that he partially acknowledged the events during questioning.
The accused was referred to the Nantes public prosecutor’s office on Sunday where he was formally indicted. He remains in custody at a remand center while the investigation continues.
