David Rachline Acquitted of Illegal Interest Charges, Announces Run for 2025 Municipal Elections

David Rachline, mayor of Fréjus and member of the National Rally (RN), has been acquitted of illegal interest charges by the correctional tribunal in Draguignan. The case involved allegations that Rachline improperly influenced municipal council decisions in relation to his nomination to two mixed economy companies, which brought him an additional income of approximately €1,000 per month. Rachline maintained that all actions were public and aimed at benefiting Fréjus, asserting that he trusted municipal staff to notify him when to recuse himself from votes. Following the acquittal, Rachline announced his candidacy for the municipal elections scheduled for March 2025, expressing relief and satisfaction with the verdict by stating, "I have been fighting for months to defend my honesty, and today it is clearly established."

Despite this legal victory, Rachline faces a separate trial in September on charges of favoritism, in which prosecutors have requested a €30,000 fine (with €20,000 suspended) and a one-year ineligibility period. This case involves allegations of awarding public contracts in favor of a security company linked to a personal acquaintance. Further complicating his political standing, Rachline's influence within the RN has waned following the publication of Camille Vigogne Le Coat's book "Les Rapaces," which contains serious accusations against him, which Rachline has dismissed as "pure inventions" and is contesting legally. Additionally, the National Financial Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into possible corruption related to these matters.

These developments occur in the tense context preceding the municipal elections, underscoring the challenges Rachline faces in maintaining his political career. His determination to continue his mandate reflects ongoing political dynamics within Fréjus and the RN party.