Bernard Squarcini, the former head of France's domestic intelligence agency, is currently on trial in Paris for alleged corruption. He is accused of engaging in covert surveillance on behalf of luxury conglomerate LVMH, led by Bernard Arnault, targeting a prominent critic and assisting in a blackmail investigation.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the intersection of corporate interests and state security in France. In 2021, LVMH reached a settlement with prosecutors, agreeing to pay €10 million ($10.6 million) without admitting any wrongdoing.

While Squarcini's actions are being examined, neither Arnault nor LVMH are implicated in the trial.