Alain, a former high-profile candidate of the popular reality TV show “L’amour est dans le pré,” has been sentenced to 10 months in prison by the criminal court of Moulins (Allier) on July 3, 2024. The court found him guilty of 28 counts of offenses, including concealed work, animal abuse, and deception on merchandise. Alain's mismanagement of his agricultural operation and market business in Moulins, Cusset, Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule, and Yzeure was brought to light during the trial.
The court revealed that Alain failed to declare his income, his son's working hours, turnover, expenses, cattle, and hectares. His defense during the hearing on May 29 mentioned that progress had been made with his accountant, but it was not sufficient. The products sold by Alain in local markets were found to be sourced from other farms, misleading customers who believed they were purchasing direct farm produce. Additionally, the products lacked essential information such as fat percentage, presence of hazelnuts, type of milk used, and producer code.
A critical inspection revealed that Alain's food products were not preserved correctly, with storage temperatures far exceeding the required 0 to 8°C range. Some products were sold more than 21 or 27 days past their expiration date. The court also highlighted the mistreatment of Alain’s livestock, including insufficient feeding and poor housing conditions. Chickens were found laying eggs in inappropriate places, such as a car wreck, and the eggs were sold dirty.
As a result of these findings, Alain has been prohibited from exercising his profession as a breeder and trader in the markets. However, he will be allowed to keep his livestock, which includes around a hundred cows, sheep, and chickens. In addition to the prison sentence, Alain was fined 5,000 euros and required to pay 80 fines for the contractions. His lawyer, Me Gilles-Jean Portejoie, argued that his client faced relentless harassment and that the court's treatment was particularly severe. Alain has not yet appealed the decision but reserves the right to do so.
