Frédéric Hay, a well-known gay activist in western France, is under investigation for alleged rape and sexual assault.
The 55-year-old founded the association Adheos in 2005 in Saintes, where he worked for many years to support gay people and promote equality.
According to the prosecutor in La Rochelle, Hay has been under formal investigation and placed under judicial control since November 20, 2025. He is accused of rape and sexual assault involving five victims, reported to be foreign nationals, including asylum seekers.
The alleged acts are said to have taken place in an apartment used by the association to host vulnerable people, as well as at Hay’s home.
His lawyer has not given details, referring instead to the presumption of innocence and the confidentiality of the case.
The case has had a strong impact on Adheos. After the accusations became public, Hay was removed from the association. The current president, Florianne Dewyngaert, said the organisation fully supports the alleged victims and has cut all ties with its founder.
She also said the situation has been very difficult and that she has experienced harassment since the news broke.
Adheos, which has centres in Saintes, Angoulême and Niort, is now facing serious challenges. In March 2026, its main financial supporter, a French public body tasked with fighting discrimination, decided to freeze a subsidy of €150,000.
At the same time, some people continue to back Hay. A support group has been created by Riyana Vigeon, a former president of Adheos. About 20 people have joined. They say they believe in his innocence and describe him as a caring and committed person.
