Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has commenced serving a five-year prison term following his conviction for accepting millions of euros from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi to finance his 2007 election campaign. The 70-year-old, who governed France from 2007 to 2012, is now housed at La Santé prison in Paris, known for its historical significance as a facility that once accommodated notorious criminals and conducted guillotine executions until the early 1970s.
Despite being designed for 657 inmates, La Santé currently holds 1,243 prisoners, highlighting France’s struggle with prison overcrowding compared to other European nations. Sarkozy is confined to a single-occupancy cell within the isolation section for enhanced security measures. His daily routine includes limited interaction with other inmates, one hour of outdoor time, and restricted communication facilitated by window coverings in the cells.
Within his cell, Sarkozy has essential amenities like a toilet, shower, desk, small electric hob, and a television, for which he incurs a monthly fee. Additionally, he has the option to rent a small fridge for a nominal fee. Despite these provisions, former La Santé deputy head Flavie Rault described the conditions in the isolation wing as challenging due to the constant solitude and lack of social interaction.
For his protection, two police officers are stationed near Sarkozy’s cell at all times, given his high-profile status and potential security threats. A video circulating online showed an inmate making threats towards Sarkozy, referencing unresolved issues related to Gaddafi and Ziad Takieddine, a key figure in the case who passed away earlier in the year under mysterious circumstances.
Sarkozy maintains his innocence and has expressed optimism about the truth prevailing despite his incarceration. His cell is located in the “VIP” wing on the top floor, designated for high-profile and vulnerable inmates. Although receiving police protection, Sarkozy’s lawyer emphasized that he is not receiving preferential treatment compared to other prisoners in the facility.
Following his first night in prison, Sarkozy’s wife, Carla Bruni, described the experience as “terrifying” after speaking with him over the phone. Sarkozy plans to spend his time in prison reading, including works like The Count of Monte Cristo and a biography of Jesus Christ, while also contemplating writing a book about his incarceration. Despite his appeal against the conviction for criminal conspiracy, the legal process will determine the fate of his conviction within the next two months.