In a shocking development, the Romanian Prosecutor's Office for Combating Organized Crime (DIICOT) has launched an investigation into American actor Jean-Claude Van Damme over allegations of his involvement in a human trafficking ring. This inquiry comes as part of a broader crackdown on organized crime in Romania, particularly concerning the exploitation of minors.
According to reports from the Romanian newspaper Libertatea, the 64-year-old actor is accused of receiving sexual services from five Romanian girls who were allegedly subjected to exploitation. Adrian Cuculis, the lawyer representing one of the victims—a 26-year-old Romanian woman who was a minor at the time of the alleged incidents—claims that Van Damme was involved in the exploitation of these girls during the Cannes Film Festival over a decade ago.
Cuculis stated, "Jean-Claude Van Damme is accused of simultaneously receiving sexual services from five Romanian girls, who were in a vulnerable state and were allegedly exploited." He further explained that the complaint against Van Damme includes serious charges under Romanian law, specifically: the use of services from an exploited person (Article 182 of the Romanian Criminal Code, paragraphs 'a', 'b', and 'c'), the creation of an organized criminal group (Article 367), and human trafficking (Article 210).
DIICOT officials have confirmed that they received Cuculis's statement and are actively investigating the claims. This case is particularly significant as it ties into a larger criminal investigation surrounding Morela Bolya, the owner of the Kasta Morrely modeling agency, who was arrested in 2022 on charges of human trafficking. Bolya is suspected of using his agency to lure young girls, including minors, into prostitution.
The accusations against Van Damme are not just limited to one victim. According to the investigation, multiple victims have come forward, detailing how they were recruited through a non-governmental organization and a modeling agency based in Iasi, Romania. These girls, underage at the time, were reportedly subjected to sexual exploitation through psychological coercion, which included manipulation and emotional abuse.
One victim, who provided testimony to DIICOT, recounted her experience, stating that she and other girls were "handed over" to Van Damme, who was allegedly aware of their ages. This adds a troubling layer to the accusations, as it implies a calculated involvement in the exploitation of minors.
In the wake of these allegations, the public response has been mixed. Some have expressed outrage and called for accountability, while others have questioned the timing of the accusations, suggesting that the victims may have ulterior motives. A commenter noted, "It’s alarming that these claims surface a decade later. It raises questions about the credibility of the accusations."
Van Damme, known for his roles in action films such as Universal Soldier and Bloodsport, has been married five times and is a father to three children. His family has previously faced scrutiny; eight years ago, his son was arrested for drug possession and armed assault.
The investigation into Van Damme is ongoing, and it remains to be seen how these serious allegations will impact his career and public image. The case highlights a broader issue of human trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, particularly minors, which continues to plague many societies.
As the investigation unfolds, DIICOT is expected to gather more evidence and testimonies, potentially leading to further developments in this high-profile case. The implications of such allegations against a well-known figure like Van Damme could resonate widely, influencing both public opinion and the ongoing fight against human trafficking.
In conclusion, this situation serves as a stark reminder of the dark realities of exploitation within the entertainment industry and the importance of vigilance in protecting the rights and safety of vulnerable individuals.
