Nicolas Sarkozy's Sons Visit Him Before Starting Prison Sentence

Nicolas Sarkozy Begins Prison Sentence in France

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy started his five-year prison term today after saying goodbye to his wife Carla Bruni. He arrived at La Santé prison in Paris, where inmates cheered for him upon his arrival.

Sarkozy's conviction follows accusations that his 2007 campaign received funds from Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. He expressed his readiness for prison in an interview, stating he will maintain his dignity during his time behind bars.

His legal team has already requested parole to release him as soon as possible. Supporters gathered outside the prison as his sons called for backing and love for their father.

Sarkozy, who maintains his innocence, expressed sorrow for France in a social media post. He is the first former French leader to be imprisoned since World War Two.

While Sarkozy was found guilty of a campaign finance scheme, he was acquitted of personally using the funds. He has denied any wrongdoing, claiming the case is politically motivated.

The decision to jail Sarkozy immediately reflects a change in France's approach to white-collar crime, moving away from past practices where convicted politicians often avoided prison. Public opinion seems to support the verdict and the decision to incarcerate Sarkozy without waiting for his appeal.