The facts are well known: after the attack on July 14, which resulted in 86 deaths, a controversy arose between local elected officials—led by Christian Estrosi—and the government over the security measures taken. The former mayor of Nice went so far as to denounce “a state lie,” targeting his nemesis, Prefect Adolphe Corlat.
An investigation was opened by the public prosecutor following about ten complaints that questioned the security arrangements and the risk assessment that was conducted.
The question that arises is whether the measures put in place for the July 14 fireworks met this level of requirement.
The investigation is ongoing, declared the public prosecutor, Jean-Michel Prêtre, this Monday.
French criminal law penalizes endangering someone when this endangerment results from a manifestly deliberate violation of laws and regulations or gross negligence regarding safety, in other words, being aware of the danger and failing to provide measures commensurate with the risk.
It is now up to the justice system to decide…
