New revelations undermine the narrative that Porcel's complaint was the first and may significantly impact the ongoing investigation.

Both TF1 and its parent company Bouygues stated they were unaware of the 2005 allegations when contacted by Le Monde, expressing shock at the recent revelations.

On October 21, 2023, 'Le Monde' reported that over 40 women have testified against Patrick Poivre d'Arvor (PPDA), a former news presenter who denies allegations of rape and sexual assault.

The 2005 complaint was classified as 'without further action' after Poivre d'Arvor denied the allegations, despite police investigations that included visits to TF1's offices.

Journalist Hélène Devynck, a plaintiff in the case, criticized TF1 for allegedly concealing the 2005 complaint and expressed frustration over the lack of action at that time.

A new article reveals that a complaint against PPDA for rape was filed as early as June 16, 2005, contradicting the belief that Florence Porcel's 2021 complaint was the first.

Caroline Merlet filed a rape complaint against PPDA in June 2005, which was dismissed in October 2005 due to lack of evidence after the accused contested the claims.

New complaints against the former journalist have been filed recently, indicating ongoing concerns about his behavior, including allegations from five women in June 2023.

PPDA was indicted in December 2023 for one of the alleged rapes, as the judicial inquiry expanded to include accusations of two other rapes and one sexual assault.

The Nanterre public prosecutor confirmed the existence of the first rape complaint against PPDA filed in 2005, highlighting potential failures within the judicial system.

Despite the allegations, PPDA has consistently denied the claims, asserting that he has never faced prior accusations of sexual violence.

Merlet's allegations are among many others made against PPDA, who has faced accusations of sexual violence, harassment, and assaults from numerous women.