The mayor of Saint-Étienne, Gaël Perdriau, is set to face trial over allegations of orchestrating a sextape scandal to blackmail his former deputy, Gilles Artigues.

The case, which has shaken the city since its revelation in 2022, accuses Perdriau of blackmail, misuse of public funds, and involvement in a criminal association.

Three of his former associates are also facing charges for their roles in the scandal.

Despite mounting pressure, including exclusion from his political party and calls for his resignation, Perdriau insists on his innocence and refuses to step down.

The scandal has tarnished the city's reputation, leading to cultural boycotts, such as the withdrawal of a major publisher from the city's annual book fair.

The trial marks a significant moment in a case that has deeply impacted Saint-Étienne's political and cultural landscape.