French MP José Beaurain under investigation for embezzlement

José Beaurain, a National Rally (RN) deputy representing Aisne's fourth constituency, is the subject of a preliminary investigation for embezzlement of public funds. The Laon prosecutor's office confirmed that investigations have been entrusted to the Aisne gendarmerie group, noting that Beaurain is presumed innocent at this stage.

The investigation follows allegations published by Le Canard enchaîné suggesting that Beaurain misused his parliamentary allowance—which is 15,000 euros due to his status as a visually impaired deputy—to pay bonuses to collaborators who were then allegedly required to return half in cash. Additionally, there are allegations that an acquaintance was hired at double pay to funnel half of their income to Beaurain's brother.

Beaurain has firmly denied all accusations, characterizing them as attempts by former disgruntled collaborators to harm him. He stated that he welcomes the investigation as a means to prove his innocence and has previously filed complaints for defamation, breach of trust, and abuse of vulnerability.