The ex-wife of the rapper “Nekfeu” accuses him of “psychological, sexual and physical violence committed during their relationship, for almost four years”. This is what Florence Fekom, the plaintiff’s lawyer, told the Parisian Me on Monday, confirming the authenticity of a press release issued by her office and circulating on social networks since Sunday evening.
What is it about?
“She denounced in particular the acts of rape perpetrated by the latter against her on several occasions”, reads the statement, according to which the complainant “is living a real hell”.
In detail, the Paris Prosecutor’s Office assures Le Parisien that “a complaint for rape by a spouse, in particular once in Barcelona”, was “filed on 21 December 2022”, but “closed on 14 September 2023, in as the “crime was not sufficiently characterized.” and have provided discussions and testimonies to this effect,” says the Paris Prosecutor’s Office.
But, in Le Parisien, Me Florence Fekom states that his client refused to file a complaint for these facts for “fear of retaliation given the gentleman’s notoriety”, and that it would only be a ”report of the facts” and not a complaint. grievance.
Want to file a complaint in June 2024
It would therefore be in June 2024, according to the complainant’s lawyer, that the alleged victim would have decided to “communicate these elements to the courts”. According to Me Fekom, the rapper’s ex-wife was offered questioning at the police station in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, which she refused because she claims she was “beaten up” there. This has not yet been confirmed by the Paris prosecutor’s office. “We ask to be heard by another police station,” says Me Florence Fekom.
“After years of living in silence and fear, he no longer has any choice but to share this story publicly, given the differential judicial treatment he has been suffering from for several months,” justifies the press release. “He suffers from severe post-traumatic stress resulting, according to the specialist certificates at his disposal, from the violence inflicted by Mr Samaras (Nekfeu’s real name). »
Is Nekfeu the subject of other complaints?
These are not the only grievances between Nekfeu and his ex-partner, as specified by the Paris prosecutor’s office and advanced by Me Florence Fekom. First of all, Nekfeu was the target of a ”complaint for harassment against an ex-spouse”, which was rejected “because the crime was not sufficiently characterized”.
“She reported too frequent contacts by her ex-partner or his lawyers in the context of the divorce procedure, while her ex-partner regularly reported to the police services that he had gone in vain to her ex-partner’s house on the days who should have handed over the child to him, without being able to see him”, explains the Paris Prosecutor’s Office. “Divorce (whose procedure is still ongoing, according to Me Florence Fekom)pronounced on 28 March 2024, it established the residence of the minor with the father and granted the mother the right of visit and accommodation.
Then, ”a complaint of violence against an ex-spouse in the presence of a minor was closed on 22 January 2024, on the grounds that the crime was not sufficiently characterized”. “He reported to “head to head” and the fact that her ex-partner one day, when he came to pick up the little girl, had quickly grabbed the stroller”, adds the Paris Prosecutor’s Office.
A proceeding is still ongoing regarding a “complaint for forgery and use of forgery filed on May 17, 2024, denouncing the observations made in the certifications presented in previous proceedings”.
Is his ex-partner also in the crosshairs?
Likewise, the Paris prosecutor’s office assures that Nekfeu ”has also filed a complaint several times against his ex-partner, for failure to represent a child”. “Two of these complaints were dismissed on the basis that the prosecutions appeared disproportionate to the situation,” it adds.
Three proceedings remain “initiated”: one for “failure to represent a minor on 29 and 30 March 2024” for which the ex-partner is placed under judicial supervision and will have to be judged on 29 January 2025, another for “non-representation of a minor between July 2022 and September 2022” for which he will have to appear before a criminal court on 29 January 2025. there is a third procedure for “failure to represent a minor between December 2022 and May 2024”, but it has not been the date of the hearing was announced.
Interview between Time.News Editor and Legal Expert on the Allegations Against Nekfeu
Editor: Welcome to Time.News. Today, we delve into a sensitive and critical subject surrounding allegations against rapper Nekfeu, made by his ex-wife, which have stirred significant public discussion. Joining us is Dr. Camille Rousseau, a legal expert in domestic abuse cases. Dr. Rousseau, thank you for being here.
Dr. Rousseau: Thank you for having me. I’m glad to contribute to this important conversation.
Editor: Let’s begin with some context. Recently, Nekfeu’s ex-wife has publicly accused him of “psychological, sexual, and physical violence.” What are the implications of such allegations publicly coming to light?
Dr. Rousseau: These allegations are serious and if substantiated, they highlight the potentially devastating impact of domestic violence not only on the victim but also on society as a whole. Public allegations encourage other victims to come forward, breaking the cycle of silence that often surrounds domestic abuse.
Editor: According to reports, this specific case includes complaints of rape and ongoing psychological suffering. What is the legal process in France for such allegations, especially given that prior complaints have been dismissed for a lack of evidence?
Dr. Rousseau: In France, victims can file complaints for offenses such as rape or domestic violence. However, the judicial system sometimes struggles with cases where evidence is not as clear-cut, as was apparently the case here. Victims may initially hesitate to file complaints out of fear of backlash, especially when their abuser is a public figure, which can complicate and prolong the legal process.
Editor: Florence Fekom, the lawyer for Nekfeu’s ex-wife, expressed concerns that the complainant was too afraid to come forward sooner. Does this fear impact the ability to obtain justice?
Dr. Rousseau: Absolutely. Fear of retaliation is a common issue that prevents many victims from seeking justice. When a victim feels intimidated by their abuser’s notoriety or influence, it can lead to delayed reporting, and unfortunately, that can influence how such cases are initially handled by the authorities. The fact that Fekom has indicated her client had to live in silence for years is indicative of the psychological barriers that can exist.
Editor: This case has also seen social media activism, with organizations calling for a public boycott of Nekfeu. What role does public opinion and social media play in cases like this?
Dr. Rousseau: Public opinion can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can amplify victims’ voices and bring attention to issues that are often marginalized. On the other hand, it can lead to trial by media, where perceptions are formed without due process. It’s crucial that support for victims is done in a way that respects legal proceedings while holding alleged abusers accountable.
Editor: The legal framework regarding harassment and domestic violence, as highlighted in this particular case, raises questions about its effectiveness. Are there changes or improvements that could be made to better support victims?
Dr. Rousseau: Yes, many advocates argue for reforms that protect victims more effectively. Increased training for law enforcement in handling domestic violence cases, the establishment of more resources for victims such as legal support, and more public awareness campaigns can help improve the situation. Additionally, addressing the psychological aspects of trauma and the context of the complaints in family courts are equally important.
Editor: As we wrap up, what message do you want to convey regarding the importance of addressing allegations of violence, regardless of the individual’s stature in society?
Dr. Rousseau: It’s essential to take all allegations seriously and provide support for victims. Our society must work toward fostering an environment where victims feel safe to speak out without fear of stigma or retaliation. We need to ensure justice is not only accessible but also equitable, regardless of anyone’s celebrity status.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rousseau, for your insights and for shedding light on this critical issue. The conversation is vital, and we hope it encourages understanding and change.
Dr. Rousseau: Thank you for having me. It’s an important discussion, and I appreciate the platform to discuss it.