How much EU funds were lost in the alleged scam?

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Approximately €4.5 million in EU funds were lost in the alleged scam.

An estimated €4.5 million in European Union funds were lost due to a purported fake jobs scam that ran between 2004 and 2016. This alleged scheme involved the misuse of parliamentary assistant funds by National Rally (RN) officials. Prosecutors have described the scam as unprecedented in its duration and scope.
Alleged Misuse of Parliamentary Assistant Funds

The prosecution contends that European Parliament Members (MEPs) from the National Rally used their monthly allowances, totalling €21,000, to pay for "fictitious" parliamentary assistants. These individuals, according to the accusations, did not perform parliamentary duties but instead worked for the political party. This practice is alleged to have eased the financial pressure on the party's own finances.
Duration and Scope of the Alleged Scam

The alleged scam is noted for its extensive timeline, spanning from 2004 to 2016, a period of twelve years. This prolonged duration, coupled with the significant financial losses, has led prosecutors to deem the operation unprecedented. The organised nature of the scheme is argued to have been further solidified when Marine Le Pen assumed leadership of the party in 2011.
Legal Ramifications for Marine Le Pen and the RN

The trial involves Marine Le Pen and other top RN officials, with prosecutors seeking a jail sentence and a ban from holding public office for Le Pen. Such a ban, if imposed to take effect immediately even pending appeal, would disqualify her from standing in the 2027 presidential elections. The National Rally party itself faces a potential fine of €4.3 million, with a portion of that amount subject to suspension.

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How much EU funds were lost in the alleged scam?

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