Arras tattoo artist on trial for sexual assault of 16 clients

A former tattoo artist, Florent M., is appearing before the Pas-de-Calais criminal court in Saint-Omer for the alleged rape and sexual assault of 16 clients. The charges cover incidents occurring between 2019 and 2023 at his salon, ‘Tattoo Empire’, in Arras, though some reports indicate allegations spanning back to 2006.

The prosecution alleges a consistent modus operandi, with the victims describing incidents occurring during tattoo sessions. The charges include the aggravating circumstance of abuse of authority. While 19 complaints were filed in total, three resulted in no charges being brought.

The 54-year-old defendant denies all accusations, suggesting that the complainants are motivated by financial compensation or professional jealousy. He was previously convicted of sexual assault in 2012. The trial is expected to last eight days, with a verdict anticipated on September 11.