Senator Joël Guerriau from Loire-Atlantique is under investigation for allegedly drugging and attempting to sexually assault Deputy Sandrine Josso in November 2023.

Josso described her traumatic experience, stating she feared for her life during the incident and is now suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Toxicology tests revealed that Josso had a dangerously high level of ecstasy in her system after attending a private gathering at Guerriau's home.

Guerriau was interrogated about suspicious internet searches related to drugs and sexual assault found on his phone, conducted shortly before the allegations.

In an interview, Guerriau claimed that resigning would be 'totally unfair' as justice has not yet made a decision regarding the case.

While Guerriau has agreed to temporarily step back from his duties, he has not officially resigned, despite pressure from Senate President Gérard Larcher.

Former Women's Rights Minister Laurence Rossignol warned that many parliamentarians would refuse to work alongside someone accused of drugging a colleague.

Many parliamentarians have voiced their opposition to Guerriau's potential return to the Senate, citing the seriousness of his alleged actions against Josso.

Despite plans to return to the Senate on October 1, 2024, Guerriau announced on September 25, 2024, that he would be stepping back from his parliamentary duties.

Guerriau has resigned from his position as vice president of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, but he still contemplates his role as Secretary of the Senate.

Larcher described the allegations against Guerriau as 'unbearable' and expressed understanding of the emotional response from his fellow senators.

The case highlights the serious issue of chemical submission in political circles, with Josso now leading a government mission to combat this phenomenon.