An investigation into allegations of misuse of public funds involving former mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, has been launched, according to recent reports. The case centers around over 312,000 euros in expenses related to "representation" — typically referring to meals or events for business or political engagement — that were reimbursed without proper documentation. The investigation, initiated by the prosecutor's office in Nice in late August, follows a report submitted in July by Estrosi's successor, Eric Ciotti, who took office in March 2023 under the UDR-RN political group. Public prosecutor Damien Martinelli confirmed the investigation on Wednesday, stating it focuses on the lack of supporting documents for a portion of these expenses. The watchdog group Transparence citoyenne had previously filed a complaint after identifying these unaccounted expenses between 2016 and 2025. Eric Ciotti had asked Estrosi to provide the necessary documents before filing a formal complaint under article 40 of the penal code, which relates to misuse of public funds. When questioned about these expenses last year, Estrosi claimed they were for meals with "investors, personalities from the economic or cultural world," aimed at advancing the city’s and metropolitan area’s projects. His lawyer has not yet responded to the announcement of the investigation’s initiation. Christian Estrosi is already the subject of multiple ongoing investigations, though he has not been formally charged in any of them. He is an "assisted witness" in an inquiry into the security measures during the July 14, 2016, attack on the Promenade des Anglais, which killed 86 people. His handling of the reconstruction efforts following the storm Alex in 2020 is also under scrutiny. Additionally, he was placed in custody in the summer of 2025 as part of an investigation into events held in Nice and the management of the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Castellet between 2018 and 2022. The current investigation adds to the growing number of legal and administrative challenges Estrosi faces, highlighting concerns about transparency and accountability in public spending. The outcome of these investigations could have significant implications for the former mayor and the city of Nice.