79-year-old teacher charged with rape, sexual assault of 89 minors

French prosecutors have revealed that a 79-year-old former teacher is facing charges of aggravated rape and sexual assault involving 89 minors across several countries.

Prosecutor Etienne Manteaux disclosed details of the case on Tuesday in Grenoble, southeastern France, while appealing for more witnesses and possible victims to come forward.

In a rare step, authorities identified the suspect as Jacques Leveugle, born in 1946 in Annecy. He has been in custody since he was indicted in 2024.

According to prosecutors, the alleged offences took place between 1967 and 2022 in countries including Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, Niger, Algeria, the Philippines, India, Colombia, and the French territory of New Caledonia.

The suspect reportedly worked in different roles, including as a freelance teacher, French language instructor, and speleology instructor.

Investigators said the number of alleged victims was determined from documents stored on a USB drive belonging to the suspect. The writings reportedly referenced sexual relationships with minors aged between 13 and 17.

The USB device was reportedly discovered by the suspect’s nephew, who had been questioning his uncle’s personal life.

The prosecutor said the materials were compiled into about 15 volumes.

During investigations, the suspect allegedly confessed to killing his terminally ill mother in the 1970s and his elderly aunt in the 1990s, according to prosecutors.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing.