A 26-year-old butler working at Matignon, the official residence of Prime Minister Michel Barnier, was arrested on November 8, 2024 in Paris for cocaine trafficking.
The suspect, identified as Vincent P., aged 26, was arrested around 10:45 p.m., this Friday, November 8, 2024, while he was parked on a scooter in front of a building in the 9th arrondissement of Paris. During his arrest, the police discovered 28 bags containing approximately 51 grams of cocaine, 1,400 euros in cash and a business card indicating his position at Matignon.
Vincent P. occupied the position of maître d’hôtel in Matignon since 2022having been hired under the government of Jean Castex. However, he had been on sick leave since March 2023, a leave which had been extended until May 2025 for “serious illness”.
He did not work for Michel Barnier, notes Matignon
Due to the quantity of drugs seized, the investigation was entrusted to the Paris narcotics brigade. A search of his home in Thiais (Val-de-Marne) confirmed his employment at Matignon thanks to the discovery of his accreditation badge, reports L'Union.
Matignon clarified that Vincent P. had never worked directly for Michel Barnier, appointed Prime Minister in September 2024. His last visit to Matignon dates back to April 18, 2024.
This affair ironically occurs on the same day that the government presented its new plan to fight drug trafficking in Marseille.
