???????? Brest. Despite 4 OQTFs and 20 convictions, this illegal alien is still in France!

This Friday, December 20, 2024, the Brest correctional chamber examined only one immediate appearance, that of a 31-year-old man, tried for receiving stolen property et illegal stay on French territory. These offenses, committed on November 4, 2024 in Brest, led to the defendant being placed in pre-trial detention.

Identity check and discovery of a stolen phone

The case dates back to November 4, 2024. Around 4:30 p.m., in the area of ​​Place de la Liberté in Brest, the police carried out identity checks at the request of the public prosecutor's office. The man, an Algerian national, was in possession of a cell phone reported stolen on the tram on September 29.

Furthermore, he was in an irregular situation, targeted by four obligations to leave French territory (OQTF).

Unproven concealment

Accused of receiving stolen property, the defendant denied any involvement, explaining that the phone had been lent to him by a friend of his partner. His common-law wife confirmed this version during her hearing. However, the friend in question was not questioned by investigators, leaving the prosecution without sufficient evidence to establish her guilt.

The court therefore pronounced an acquittal on this count, although the defendant's criminal record counts 20 convictionsmainly for flights.

Conviction for illegal stay

On the other hand, the thirty-year-old was found guilty of staying illegally in France. The court sentenced him to four months in prison with continued detention. In addition, it is prohibited to stay on French territory for a period of three years.

A case revealing the complexity of migration controls

This judgment illustrates the challenges faced by the authorities in managing situations of illegal stay and related offenses. Although the defendant was acquitted for receiving stolen goods for lack of evidence, his irregular administrative situation and his criminal record weighed heavily in the balance.

The authorities continue to strengthen identity checks and legal procedures to combat crimes committed by people in an irregular situation.

Source: The Telegram