A prostitution network described as "violent" and involving a minor was dismantled in the Nord and Pas-de-Calais regions at the end of September, according to the Béthune prosecutor's office. The network was uncovered after multiple victims came forward to report serious issues. Étienne Thieffry, the prosecutor of Béthune (Pas-de-Calais), explained that the majority of the victims, including prostitutes and their clients, had experienced "physical violence" and were subjected to "threats" by the accused. Among the sixteen victims are "several prostitutes, including one aged 13 years," as well as their clients and even clients of a car rental agency operated by the accused. The alleged offenses took place between February and September in several communes in the Nord and Pas-de-Calais regions, including Lille, Lens, and Douai. These areas are part of northern France and are known for their industrial history and diverse population. On September 28 and 29, ten individuals were arrested in connection with the case. Judicial proceedings were subsequently initiated against eight of them, according to the prosecutor's office. Four of the defendants, who are in their early twenties, were placed in provisional detention and are scheduled to appear before the Béthune correctional court on November 19. They face potential prison sentences of up to ten years and fines of 150,000 euros. A minor under the age of 16 was placed in a closed educational center while awaiting his trial. This type of facility is designed to provide structured care and rehabilitation for young offenders. Three other defendants were subject to a procedure known as "appearance with prior admission of guilt," which allows for faster judicial resolution. One of them received a prison sentence of 10 months, while the other two were sentenced to 14 months in prison with conditional release. Étienne Thieffry detailed these sentences during a press briefing, emphasizing the severity of the crimes committed and the importance of justice being served.