Paris after-school leader acquitted of child sexual assault, convicted of harassing colleagues

The verdict

On 7 July 2026, the Paris criminal court acquitted David G., a 36-year-old after-school activity leader, of sexual assault on nine children aged 3 to 5 at the Alphonse Baudin nursery school in the 11th arrondissement. The court cited "doubt" and noted that children's statements may have been influenced by parental questioning. No adult had reported witnessing sexual gestures. However, David G. was convicted of sexually harassing two female colleagues and sentenced to eight months' suspended imprisonment with a two-year probation period, mandatory treatment, and registration as a sex offender. The prosecution had sought three years, including one year firm.

Reactions

The verdict sparked anger among families present. "Bravo for the children, nice show, a sham," some parents shouted, with several bursting into tears. One mother of a three-year-old boy said the ruling was "very harsh, incomprehensible" and that children had spoken but were not heard.

You'd have to be a psychopath to do that.

David G. had denied all sexual intent during the trial, attributing any physical contact to "clumsiness" from lack of training.

A wider scandal

This was the first public trial since the Paris after-school scandal erupted. Since early 2026, prosecutors have opened investigations in 84 nursery schools, about twenty elementary schools, and a dozen crèches. According to the city, 132 activity leaders have been suspended, 52 for suspected sexual or sexist violence. On 17 June, another leader at the Titon elementary school was also acquitted, a decision the prosecution has appealed.

Summer camp enrollment drop

Amid the scandal, Paris has seen a sharp decline in summer camp registrations. The city reported a 16% drop, with 2,000 fewer children enrolled compared to summer 2025. Around 16,000 children are registered in some 300 centers this year, down from over 18,000.

It is not surprising that parents do not want to take the risk.

Anne, co-founder of the SOS Périscolaire collective, said parents are especially wary during full-day summer programs where regular teachers are absent. Deputy mayor Anne-Claire Boux stated that recruitment processes have been strengthened and parents will be given the names of activity leaders at each center. She emphasized efforts to build well-prepared teams to support all children, including those with special needs.