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

Mayenne – 09.07.2026: A 47-year-old man, who reportedly worked as a piano and guitar teacher, has been remanded in custody in the Mayenne department on suspicion of sexual acts involving minors. The Parquet de Laval confirmed that criminal proceedings have been initiated against the accused. The decision to remand him in custody was made after a court hearing following his arrest by police.

The proceedings were prompted by statements from the parents of two nine-year-old girls. According to the prosecution, the allegations were based on the children’s own testimony. During his police detention, the accused reportedly admitted the acts; the relevant records were forwarded to the judicial authorities. Initial investigative measures and interviews were conducted by the Mayenne gendarmerie. Authorities provided no details about the circumstances of the case or the evidence seized, citing the protection of minors.

According to available information, the allegations concern contacts in a home environment, possibly during lessons. Specific locations and times of the alleged crimes, or other persons involved, were not disclosed. The judiciary stressed that the identities of the children are strictly protected. Under judicial practice, standard protective measures may be applied in such cases, including psychological support, contact bans and restrictions on residence, depending on the stage of the investigation.

Under French law, pre-trial detention may be ordered to ensure the preservation of evidence, prevent pressure on potential witnesses, prevent repeat acts or guarantee the accused’s appearance before investigative authorities. The exact legal classification of the acts is determined by the investigating judge; depending on their severity, it may range from sexual assault to more serious offences against minors. Initially, there was no information about statements by the accused’s defence lawyer. Despite explanations given during questioning, the man continues to be presumed innocent until a final court decision takes effect.

The case has caused shock in the region. In small communities, where private music teachers often hold lessons at home, cases of suspicion raise practical questions for families and associations: parents can contact local gendarmerie stations or the Tribunal judiciaire de Laval to provide information or find out about support for victims. In France, those affected can access, among other services, the 119 hotline (children in danger) as well as regional victim support services. The investigation in Mayenne is ongoing; further measures by the judicial authorities are possible once additional information emerges.