David Rachline

Following revelations in the investigative book 'Les Rapaces', prosecutors opened a preliminary investigation in January 2024 into favouritism (in public procurement), handling the proceeds of favouritism and active and passive corruption involving an elected official in the management of Fréjus. In March 2025, searches were conducted at the town hall, David Rachline's home and several companies. Anticor also submitted a report alleging suspected corruption, embezzlement of public funds and illegal taking of interest.

David Rachline was tried for illegal taking of interest after participating in municipal council votes concerning two semi-public companies which he subsequently chaired for remuneration. Prosecutors had requested a fine and a period of electoral disqualification. The Draguignan Criminal Court acquitted him on 27 January 2026.

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome

Following two days in police custody on 24 and 25 November 2025, David Rachline was directly prosecuted for favouritism in public procurement alongside several colleagues. Prosecutors suspect them of favouring a security company belonging to an associate of the mayor in awarding public contracts for the town hall, tourist office and vaccination centre. His trial is scheduled for 22 September 2026.

Attribution

Accused

A Regional Audit Chamber report on the management of Fréjus identified several problematic areas: rising debt, increasing borrowing, the cost of a public-private partnership exceeding forecasts, and weaknesses in the management or transparency of public procurement. Rachline's presentation of the report as broadly favourable was criticised as selective.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility

A photograph circulated in 2025 showing David Rachline alongside figures linked to radical far-right circles, including Frédéric Chatillon and Logan Djian, triggered further internal controversy within the RN. Against a backdrop already severely affected by his legal cases, Marine Le Pen compelled him to leave the party's governing bodies in early December 2025.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

During the review of Marine Le Pen's campaign accounts for the 2017 presidential election, the Commission nationale des comptes de campagne et des financements politiques disallowed more than 15 000 euros in expenditure relating to the housing or work-related accommodation of David Rachline, then campaign director, finding that these costs could not be attributed entirely to the campaign.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility

David Rachline opposed the opening of the El Fath mosque in Fréjus despite court decisions favourable to the managing association. In January 2016, the Var prefect ultimately authorised the opening on a provisional basis, acting in place of the mayor following a Council of State decision.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility

The 'Surf Academy' project promoted by Fréjus town hall, with an announced cost of approximately 4.6 million euros, was rejected by the prefecture. The legality review notably found that the municipal resolution named as a partner a company that did not yet legally exist at the time of the vote.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility

Under David Rachline's authority, Fréjus town hall published a statement naming a France 3 journalist and accusing her of 'sullying' the city following critical reports, notably on the Surf Academy. France 3 management denounced accusations it considered defamatory and pressure on its journalist's work.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated