Published on Friday, a report reveals 17 new allegations of sexual violence against Abbé Pierre, some of which relate for the first time to acts that may be similar to rape or that concern minors. Following this report, commissioned by the Abbé Pierre Foundation, Emmaüs France and Emmaüs International, the three organizations reaffirmed their “full support” for the victims and announced a series of measures.
“Image of a Sexual Predator”
The Abbé Pierre Foundation indicated in particular that it had begun the process of changing the name and Emmaüs announced the permanent closure of a memorial center dedicated to Abbé Pierre in Esteville (Seine-Maritime). “From now on, Abbe Pierre, for everyone and especially for people who have been victims of violence in their lives, is the image of a sexual predator,” Adrien Chaboche pointed out.
“Everything suggests” that given “the acts committed over such a long period of time, we still don't know everything,” he added. “Certainly there are other facts, we expect to see other testimonies. The helpline remains open for the time being at least until the end of the year.”