Bétharram: 40 new complaints filed, bringing the total number of denunciations to 152

On 27 February 2025, the victims’ collective of the Notre-Dame de Bétharram Catholic institute in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region lodged 40 new complaints with the Pau public prosecutor’s office, bringing the total number of accusations relating to abuse suffered by pupils between the 1970s and 2000 to 152.

Physical violence and sexual assault

The complaints lodged today mainly concern physical violence and sexual assault. The accusations include spankings with a large wooden ruler, repeated slaps and sexual assaults, including the rape of a 12-year-old boy. One complaint also refers to a 10-year-old child who was forced to strip naked during confession, before being touched.

Accusations against priests and lay people

Thirteen priests are specifically targeted by these new complaints, as well as several lay people, including supervisors and a sports teacher.

Victims around the world

Although the majority of victims live in France, some complaints have been lodged from abroad, notably from Mexico, Ireland, Canada, Australia and Switzerland.

Complaints against deceased priests

Among the 40 new complaints, three deceased priests are also targeted, but as the statute of limitations has expired, no proceedings can be brought against them.

Silence broken, testimony continues

The public prosecutor in Pau and the victims’ collective continue to receive new testimonies and complaints. Public figures, including the son of a former member of parliament, have also decided to break the silence and lodge a complaint in solidarity with their former comrades.