Nîmes court acquits minor involved in weapons seizure

A minor involved in a high-profile weapons seizure in Nîmes has been acquitted by the children's court. The case stems from an incident on April 9, 2023, in the Mas de Mingue district, where police intercepted a stolen vehicle and a motorcycle. During the encounter, suspects fled, leaving behind an arsenal that included two Kalashnikov rifles. These weapons had reportedly been used in a murder attempt in the Valdegour neighborhood ten days prior.

While three adults involved in the group were previously sentenced in October 2024 to prison terms ranging from 8 to 12 years, the minor—who was suspected of accompanying the team—was acquitted this week. The legal proceedings for minors in France prioritize education and discernment, often involving a multi-stage process that separates the determination of guilt from the sentencing phase.