Paris: Dominique Boutonnat, head of France’s National Centre of Cinema (CNC), was sentenced to three years in prison, with two years suspended, after being convicted of sexually assaulting his godson in 2020. The Nanterre criminal court’s decision, announced on Friday, includes a one-year term to be served at home under electronic surveillance.
In his immediate response to the ruling, Boutonnat, 54, stated he would step down from his position at the CNC, an institution responsible for implementing measures to curb sexual violence within the film industry. He also declared his intention to appeal the verdict, reaffirming his innocence.
The court found the testimony of the plaintiff, who was 19 at the time of the incident, more credible than Boutonnat’s defense. According to the court, Boutonnat held significant influence over his godson, which factored into the conviction. The godson accused Boutonnat of attempting to masturbate him during a holiday in Greece. In contrast, Boutonnat claimed that the young man initiated the situation by kissing him on the mouth.
“I feel bad about leaving an ambiguous situation, but to say there was a sexual assault is false,” Boutonnat told the court. Despite his protestations, the court ruled against him and issued a three-year ban on any contact with the victim.
This conviction follows Boutonnat’s reappointment as CNC head in July 2022, despite being under investigation since February 2021. Caroline Toby, the victim’s lawyer, emphasized the case as a clear demonstration of sexual assault and abuse of authority. The public prosecutor had initially sought a three-year suspended sentence.
Boutonnat’s conviction is a significant development in French cinema, which has been grappling with a renewed #MeToo reckoning. Several prominent figures, including acting legend Gerard Depardieu, have faced accusations of sexual abuse. The ruling against Boutonnat underscores ongoing efforts to address and combat sexual violence in the industry.
This case not only highlights the serious consequences of sexual misconduct but also reflects the broader societal and cultural shifts towards accountability and justice for victims of sexual assault. The CNC, under new leadership, will continue its mission to implement robust measures to ensure a safer environment within the film industry.
