Bernard Squarcini, the former head of French domestic intelligence, is on trial in Paris accused of running a surveillance operation against left-wing journalist François Ruffin and his organization, Fakir, between 2013 and 2016. The trial, which includes nine co-defendants, will examine allegations of influence peddling benefiting LVMH and other offenses, including public fund misappropriation. Ruffin claims he was targeted for his critical work against LVMH. LVMH negotiated a 10 million euro settlement to escape prosecution, leaving Squarcini and others to face legal accountability.

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