The French Communist Party of Alpes-Maritimes has suspended one of its activists, Philippe Pellegrini. This Nice resident was convicted of setting fire to a colleague’s car on the night of February 12 to 13, 2025, in the parking lot of the CHU in Nice. The party considers this act incompatible with its values.
The French Communist Party of Alpes-Maritimes announced the suspension of Philippe Pellegrini. This decision follows the conviction of this activist from Nice for the intentional arson of a colleague’s vehicle. The incident took place in the parking lot of the CHU in Nice on the night of February 12 to 13, 2025. The arson affected the car of a nurse. Authorities quickly identified the perpetrator through surveillance camera footage.
The PCF06 states that this act harms the integrity of a worker. The party believes that this action tarnishes its image. It reminds that the organization is based on values of respect, equality, and solidarity. The departmental leadership has therefore decided to remove Philippe Pellegrini from all activist activities. This measure also applies to any internal responsibilities he might hold. The party notes that he had already distanced himself from activist life since the implementation of the new leadership.
According to the PCF06, this new leadership has been working for almost three years on rebuilding an organization true to its humane, feminist, and republican principles. The party emphasizes that no violent or discriminatory behavior can be accepted. It reaffirms its commitment to encouraging engagement based on integrity and exemplary conduct.
Julien Picot, departmental secretary, and member of the Unis pour Nice list for the 2026 Municipal Elections, recalls that Philippe Pellegrini was an active activist in the Alpes-Maritimes department. He participated in numerous actions organized by the federation. His suspension aims to uphold the ethical standards set by the organization.
An Act Acknowledged by the Defendant in Court
The Nice Criminal Court tried Philippe Pellegrini for these actions. A nurse at the CHU at the time, the defendant is also affiliated with the CGT-Health union. During the hearing, he acknowledged the actions while explaining his gesture as arising from a workplace conflict, without being able to give a clear reason. On the stand, he admitted to a “stupid” act. According to the investigation’s conclusions, he used hand sanitizer and a lighter to set the vehicle’s tires on fire. Surveillance footage shows him approaching the car with a bottle in hand and leaving without it. After the incident, he left the CHU. He now works as a temporary worker in various establishments in the department.
The court found him guilty of intentional arson. He was sentenced to twelve months of suspended imprisonment with probation for two years. He must comply with treatment and employment obligations. This decision takes into account the absence of a criminal record but also the seriousness of the act committed in a sensitive area, close to a hyperbaric chamber.
This conviction has an immediate impact on his political engagement during an electoral period. The suspension imposed by the PCF06 will remain in effect as long as the departmental leadership deems necessary. The party asserts its desire to maintain a clear stance against any behavior contrary to its principles during a period when drawing curiosity must be avoided as much as possible…
This case highlights the tensions that can arise within the hospital environment. It also recalls the reputational stakes for political organizations. The PCF06 stresses its commitment to preserving an internal function based on respect and individual responsibility.
