An English instructor working at a private preschool in northern Paris has been taken into custody on suspicion of rape and sexual assault against young children. Around twenty complaints have reportedly been filed against the man, who worked in after-school programs. The investigation concerns particularly serious offenses allegedly committed against preschool students.

The investigation began in early July following a complaint from the parents of a three-and-a-half-year-old girl. The alleged incidents occurred during introductory English classes. Since this initial report, other families have come forward, leading investigators to broaden their scope. At this stage, the legal proceedings are ongoing, and the allegations will need to be substantiated by the courts.

The person involved had been removed from the case as soon as it was reported.

The man worked for CapEnglish, a language learning company. The company claims to have immediately suspended him from all activities with students after being informed of the accusations by the school administration. The company also maintains that the background checks required during his recruitment had been carried out and that nothing known at that time prevented him from working with minors.

The case has reignited the debate surrounding the oversight of external contractors who work daily with very young children in schools. Beyond the criminal investigation, the inquiry will need to clarify the circumstances under which the alleged events may have occurred and determine whether any warning signs were detected earlier. CapEnglish, for its part, states that it is fully cooperating with investigators and has committed to providing them with all relevant information for the proceedings.