French Court of Cassation Confirms 18-Year Sentences for Final Convicts in 2016 Nice Terror Attack

On February 11, 2026, the French Court of Cassation definitively upheld 18-year prison sentences for Mohamed Ghraieb and Chokri Chafroud, the last two individuals convicted for their roles in the July 14, 2016, terrorist attack in Nice. This attack, perpetrated by Mohamed Lahouaiej-Bouhlel, involved a truck ramming into crowds celebrating the national holiday on the Promenade des Anglais, resulting in 86 deaths.

Ghraieb and Chafroud were found guilty of "association de malfaiteurs terroriste" (terrorist criminal conspiracy). Their sentences include a mandatory two-thirds period of security detention, reflecting the gravity of their involvement. The Court of Cassation rejected their appeals, making these convictions final. Additionally, Ghraieb has been banned from the Alpes-Maritimes region for 15 years, while Chafroud faces a lifetime ban from French territory and both men will be registered in the terrorist offenders' database.

Investigations revealed that Chafroud had communicated messages suggesting violent actions prior to the attack, including disturbing remarks about loading a truck with iron bars, indicating his influence over or encouragement of Lahouaiej-Bouhlel's actions. Ghraieb initially denied authorship of hateful messages but later admitted them, expressing shame.

Earlier, in December 2022, six other individuals—five men and one woman—had received prison terms ranging from two to twelve years for related offenses and their sentences are now also definitive due to lack of appeal.

Philippe Soussi, representing the victims, welcomed the court's ruling, highlighting the relief it brings to approximately 1,500 victims' families who had long awaited justice.

This ruling marks the conclusion of legal proceedings concerning the major 2016 Nice terrorist attack, confirming the judicial system's firm stance against terrorism-related crimes in France.