French prosecutors have requested a 20-year prison sentence for Sofiane Hambli and an acquittal for François Thierry, according to reports from the ongoing terrorism trial at the Special Assize Court in Bordeaux. The trial, which began on March 17, 2026, involves charges related to a terrorist conspiracy and financing of terrorism.
Sofiane Hambli, 35, is accused of being a key figure in a network that financed Islamist extremism, including the travel of individuals to Syria. The prosecution alleges he played a central role in the logistical and financial support of terrorist activities.
François Thierry, a 72-year-old former gendarme, is charged with criminal association in relation to a terrorist enterprise. His defense argues he was manipulated and had no knowledge of the network's true aims. The prosecution concluded there was insufficient evidence of his intentional involvement to secure a conviction.
The trial is part of a broader case stemming from a 2017 investigation by France's anti-terrorism prosecutor's office. A verdict from the court is expected following the conclusion of the trial and deliberations.
