Bank freezes funds of media founder

On October 7, an encrypted channel controlled by Vincent Bolloré since 2015 froze 174,215 euros from the bank accounts of Jean-Baptiste Rivoire, founder and editor-in-chief of Off Investigation. The action was taken without warning and without a proposed timeline, raising concerns about the media outlet's financial stability.

Rivoire's legal and professional history

Jean-Baptiste Rivoire, who had not been assigned any work since the cancellation of the program Spécial Investigation in 2015, left Canal + in 2021 under a condition set by Bolloré’s management: to sign a settlement agreement that included strict silence instructions. He was later ordered by the Court of Appeal of Versailles to pay 142,500 euros to his former employer, plus interest, for criticizing Bolloré in a 2021 documentary by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

Legal appeal does not stop the freeze

The bank seizure occurred despite an appeal to the Court of Cassation, France’s highest court for legal matters. This has left Off Investigation, a media outlet fully funded by citizens, in a precarious financial position, as Rivoire can no longer personally cover cash flow gaps.

Media outlet highlights Bolloré's influence

Off Investigation, described as a 100% citizen-funded media, has focused on the influence of the Bolloré empire on culture and information. This includes a film titled FINI DE RIRE ! L'humour politique au garde à vous?, which has drawn more than 60,000 admissions since its September release last year.

Future projects depend on public support

Two upcoming documentaries, Bolloré contre l'info and Souriez, vous êtes virés, will explore Bolloré’s impact on media. However, without Rivoire’s personal financial support, Off Investigation will rely solely on public donations to fund new projects. The outlet is encouraging subscriptions and donations to continue its work.