Lyon Archbishop's priest director faces aggravated rape complaint after removal
Jean-Bernard Plessy, the former director of the Institution des Chartreux, has been accused of aggravated rape and sexual assault following his removal by the archbishop.
The priest Jean-Bernard Plessy, who led the Institution des Chartreux for 27 years, was removed from his director role after the archbishop learned of a relationship with a major-age student under his supervision. His lawyer, Nadia Debbache, says the victim suffered aggravated rapes and sexual assaults, citing the abuse of authority and the victim's vulnerability, and that the offenses persisted for months up to July 2026.
The Lyon public prosecutor confirmed a criminal investigation has been opened. The archdiocese announced a canonical investigation alongside the civil case. Plessy, ordained in 1991 for the diocese of Saint-Etienne, had announced his resignation in a letter to parents earlier in the year.
Why it matters
The case underscores ongoing concerns about sexual abuse and accountability within Catholic institutions.
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