A piano teacher remanded in custody in Mayenne for sexual assaults on two nine-year-old girls

Mayenne – 09.07.2026: A 47-year-old man, who is said to have worked as a piano and guitar teacher, has been placed in pretrial detention in the Mayenne department, suspected of sexual acts involving minors. The Laval public prosecutor’s office confirmed that an investigation has been opened against the suspect. The decision to place him in pretrial detention was made after a court hearing following his presentation by the police.

The proceedings were initiated by complaints from the parents of two nine-year-old girls. According to the prosecutor’s office, the allegations are based on the children’s own statements. During police custody, the suspect reportedly admitted the acts; the corresponding records were forwarded to the judiciary. The Mayenne gendarmerie conducted the initial investigations and interviews. The authorities provided no details on the exact circumstances of the alleged acts or on the evidence seized, citing the protection of the minors.

According to the information available at this stage, the allegations concern contact in a family setting, possibly during teaching situations. The exact locations, dates, or any other persons involved have not been made public. The judiciary reiterated that the children’s identities would be strictly protected. Usual protective measures, such as psychological support, contact bans, and residence requirements, are available in this type of case and may be ordered depending on the progress of the investigation.

Under French law, pretrial detention may be ordered to ensure the preservation of evidence, prevent pressure on potential witnesses, avoid repeat offenses, or ensure the suspect’s appearance before the authorities in charge of the investigation. The exact legal classification of the acts is the responsibility of the investigating judge; depending on their severity, it may range from sexual assault to more serious offenses committed against minors. No statement from the suspect’s defense lawyer was initially available. Despite his statements during questioning, the man remains presumed innocent until a final decision.

The case has caused concern in the region. In small municipalities, where private music teachers often teach in families’ homes, suspected cases raise practical questions for families and associations: parents can contact local gendarmerie brigades or the Laval judicial court to provide information or inquire about victim support. In France, those concerned can call 119 (children at risk) and contact regional victim support organizations. The investigation in Mayenne is ongoing; further judicial measures are possible as soon as additional information becomes available.