Nicolas Sarkozy, the former French president, spent his first day in La Santé prison under strict security measures following his conviction for corruption. He is being held in a specialized wing consisting of 15 cells, designed for high-risk inmates, and is under 24-hour supervision due to ongoing threats.

According to his lawyer, Christophe Ingrain, Sarkozy may serve just three weeks to a month initially while his legal team pursues a release request and appeals the five-year sentence.

Video footage circulating online shows another inmate pointing to Sarkozy’s cell, saying: “Sarkozy is right here, in solitary. He just arrived… he will have a very hard time,” followed by warnings referencing international figures and alleged financial matters.

High Security Measures

Two dedicated security officers are stationed next to Sarkozy’s cell around the clock. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez explained that this heightened protection is standard for former heads of state facing specific threats. The prison administration confirmed that these measures are in place for as long as deemed necessary.

Solitary Confinement and Daily Routine

Sarkozy’s 9-square-meter cell contains a single bed, a desk fixed to the floor, a nightstand, a plastic chair, shelves, a television, a toilet and shower, a small cooking stove, and a wall-mounted telephone for pre-approved calls. Natural light is minimal due to reinforced windows.

He is allowed one hour of outdoor exercise daily, unaccompanied by other inmates, and has limited access to a gym and a small library. Meals—bread with jam for breakfast and two additional meals—are served by prison staff rather than fellow inmates. Family visits are permitted three times a week, and he can meet with his lawyers whenever needed.

First Day Challenges

Sarkozy underwent identification and medical checks before entering his cell. According to his lawyer, the former president faced noise and activity typical of the prison environment but managed his first day without requesting special treatment. He met briefly with his wife, Carla Bruni, and focused on writing and exercising.

Sarkozy brought three books with him: The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas in two volumes, which depicts wrongful imprisonment and revenge, and a biography of Jesus Christ. His lawyer confirmed that the former president intends to spend his time reading, exercising, and receiving family and legal visits while monitoring his psychological state during the initial confinement period.