The preliminary investigation for rape allegations against French rapper Lomepal has been closed, according to the Paris prosecutor's office. The decision, announced on January 24, 2025, determined the facts could not be clearly established throughout the investigations. Over a series of months, three women had come forward, accusing the 33-year-old artist, whose real name is Antoine Valentinelli, of serious wrongdoing spanning from incidents reported as far back as 2017.
The inquiry began following the first complaint lodged by one of Lomepal's acquaintances, who alleged she was raped by him during 2017 in New York. Since then, subsequent accusations involved two other women, one of whom filed her claim at the end of 2023, alleging instances of rape occurring in France. The most recent complaint was made by yet another woman, who also brought her case against the rapper to light.
Upon learning about the dismissal of the investigation, Lomepal took to social media to voice his relief and reaffirm his innocence. "I am innocent," he wrote, expressing hopes of moving forward with his life. "I take my life back," he added, emphasizing the toll the investigation took on him. He recounted how extensive police inquiries scoured through his background, including examining messages, photographs, and even phone records.
Despite this closure, one of the plaintiffs’ attorneys, Sacha Ghozlan, stated intentions to file another complaint, with the aim of initiating additional judicial proceedings. Ghozlan explained, "The prosecutor does not say the offense did not occur, but rather the facts are old and there are no sufficient elements to proceed to judgment." This sentiment reflects the frustrations many feel surrounding the investigation's results.
Frédérique Pollet Rouyer, another lawyer representing two of the plaintiffs, voiced her disappointment, declaring, "I experience a great sense of injustice for my clients." She emphasized their accounts, which she argued represented enough evidence to warrant more extensive investigation rather than dismissal. Pollet Rouyer noted the plaintiffs had quickly confided their experiences to trusted acquaintances and even sought medical examinations soon after the alleged incidents, highlighting their emotional toll.
The investigation's decline is not just another chapter for Lomepal; it is indicative of broader issues within the music industry, where allegations of misconduct have surged. Jenna Boulmedais, the editor of the online media outlet Joly Môme, had previously brought attention to these behaviors on social media, asserting, "The silence is literally no longer possible; seeing his name headlining numerous festivals is unacceptable." Her remarks suggest systemic issues surrounding the treatment of women and accountability within the entertainment world.
Lomepal's rise to fame has been marked by significant achievements. After establishing himself with his debut album Flip in 2017, he became recognized for his distinct lyrical style, often delving emotionally as well as creatively. With subsequent albums like Jeannine and Mauvais ordre, he garnered acclaim and recognition, making his recent troubles even more notable as discussions of his statements and behavior frame public perception.
The dismissals and grievances echo outside Lomepal's world, linking him to other high-profile cases within the genre. With several artists within French rap facing similar accusations, including those involving violence and sexual misconduct, the current climate of scrutiny offers no easy resolutions. Notably, other singers, such as Naps and Moha La Squale, have also faced allegations, showcasing the complexity of maintaining reputations amid professional achievements.
While Lomepal now seeks to return to normalcy with his career, the impact of the allegations undoubtedly lingers. The public’s perception, the industry dynamics, and broader social conversations about accountability will play pivotal roles moving forward. The intersection of celebrity, conduct, and legal processes continues to captivate, raising questions about future accountability and discussions within the public and media spheres.
For now, Lomepal has announced plans to focus on his musical career once again, but the shadows of the past remain, as critics and supporters alike reflect on the allegations and their outcomes long after the investigations conclude.