Piano teacher in Mayenne remanded in custody over sexual assaults on two nine-year-old girls

Mayenne – 09.07.2026: A 47-year-old man, who allegedly worked as a piano and guitar teacher, has been placed in pre-trial detention in the Mayenne department on suspicion of sexual acts against minors. The Laval Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that an investigative procedure has been opened against the accused. The decision to order pre-trial detention was made following a court hearing after he was handed over to the police.

The proceedings were initiated following complaints filed by the parents of two nine-year-old girls. According to the prosecutor’s office, the allegations were based on statements from the minors themselves. During police custody, the accused allegedly admitted the acts; the corresponding records were forwarded to the courts. The Mayenne Gendarmerie carried out the initial investigations and interrogations. The authorities did not provide details about the course of events or the evidence seized, citing the protection of the minors.

According to the information available so far, the allegations concern contact in a domestic setting, possibly in the context of lessons. No specific locations, dates, or possible involvement of other persons have been disclosed. The judiciary stressed that the girls’ identities will be strictly protected. According to judicial practice, customary protective measures may be applied in such cases, such as psychological support, contact bans, and territorial restrictions, depending on the progress of the investigation.

Under French law, pre-trial detention may be ordered to ensure the preservation of evidence, prevent pressure on potential witnesses, prevent further offenses, or ensure the accused’s appearance before investigating authorities. The exact legal classification of the acts falls to the investigating judge; depending on their severity, it may range from sexual assault to more serious offenses against minors. Initially, no statements from the accused’s defense lawyer were available. Despite his statements during questioning, the man remains protected by the presumption of innocence until a final ruling is issued.

The case has caused consternation in the region. In small municipalities, where private music teachers often give lessons in homes, suspected cases raise practical questions for families and associations: parents can contact local Gendarmerie stations or the Tribunal judiciaire de Laval to provide information or inquire about victim assistance. In France, affected persons have access, among other resources, to the number 119 (children in danger) and regional victim support services. The investigation in Mayenne is continuing; further measures by the judicial authorities are possible when additional information becomes available.