Claims of child rape and sexual assault perpetrated by a kindergarten teacher in the Hérault area have surfaced
A 59-year-old woman, formerly employed at the maternelle school Les Aresquiers in Vic-la-Gardiole, has been placed under formal investigation for alleged acts of rape and sexual assault on nine pupils. The investigation, opened on July 29, involves digital penetration and masturbation on young children between October 1, 2024, and July 2, 2025.
The small village of Vic-la-Gardiole, located about 30 minutes east of Montpellier, has been shaken by this shocking news. The suspect, described by neighbours as a woman who liked to party at home with a "contestatory" character and who "has been at odds with many people," resides in the village.
The allegations came to light when a complaint was filed by parents at the beginning of July. The complaint was made to the gendarmerie, and the mayor of Vic-la-Gardiole received an email announcing the complaint on July 2. The mayor subsequently made a report to the Montpellier prosecutor's office on July 3.
No reports regarding the behaviour of the suspect had been made to the justice system prior to this incident. The rectorate of Montpellier has expressed its support and solidarity to the children and families affected by the incident. A psychological cell will be deployed at the start of the school year, and if necessary during the summer holidays, to support the affected children and their families.
The woman in question was employed at the maternelle school since October 1, 2024, and was also an employee of the City of Montpellier since 2014. According to the prosecutor's office, her criminal record is clean.
The investigation will determine whether other children attending the school have been victims of sexual touching. Parents of victims have already been received by the association France Victimes. The suspect has reportedly defended herself in custody by mentioning a "conspiracy by the town hall against her."
The school, Les Aresquiers, has not commented publicly on the ongoing investigation. The community of Vic-la-Gardiole is left to grapple with the news, with many questioning how such an incident could have occurred in their midst.
- Despite no prior reports about suspicious behavior, the small village of Vic-la-Gardiole grapples with an investigation into justice and crime as a former local school teacher stands accused of sexual assault on nine pupils.
- The slightly controversial figure, known for her "contestatory" character, is also a health-and-wellness advocate with a focus on education-and-self-development, leaving the community in shock and question about the intertwining of seemingly disparate aspects of her life.
- As this general news story unfolds, the attention also turns to the role of science, particularly in the legal process, as the investigation determines whether other possible victims exist within the school and community.
