RN deputy José Beaurain placed under preliminary probe for alleged public fund misuse

Prosecutors in Laon have launched a preliminary investigation into RN deputy José Beaurain for suspected diversion of public funds, according to official statements. The case has been handed to the Aisne gendarmerie group, and the prosecutor emphasized that Beaurain remains presumed innocent. The allegations originated from an August report that highlighted his larger parliamentary allowance, which he allegedly used to request cash refunds of half the bonuses paid to his assistants and to channel payments to his brother via a front man.

Two former assistants claim they warned the RN group secretary in January 2024 about the alleged misuse of their bonuses and personal expense advances. Beaurain has denied the accusations, previously announcing plans to sue the Canard enchaîné for defamation and to pursue a “combat” to restore his reputation.