The city of Besançon has removed a mural by street artist Nacle that depicted a CRS (Républicaine de Sécurité, or Republican Security) officer wearing a uniform resembling the Reaper, a traditional symbol of death, along with the phrase "The police kill." The city announced the decision on Tuesday, September 22, explaining that the mural was painted on a designated "free expression wall," a public space where artists are allowed to create without prior approval. The mayor of Besançon, Ludovic Fagaut (from the LR party), called the mural "unacceptable" in a Facebook post, stating the city needed to "clarify its position" on such messages, which he said did not align with the city's values or the principles of the French Republic. The city also shared photos of the wall after it had been repainted. The city of Besançon emphasized that while freedom of expression and artistic creation are important, they must have limits. According to the mayor, such expressions should not call into question the work of police officers who serve the public. Fagaut mentioned he had consulted with the prefect of the Doubs region and the interdepartmental director of the National Police to discuss the issue. The artist, Nacle, expressed confusion over the city’s decision, saying the mural was meant to spark debate, much like a previous piece he created in response to the Lyhanna case, a highly publicized incident involving a police officer. Nacle noted that he was not informed of the city’s concerns and was surprised that the mayor’s office had his contact information since June. He said he was open to addressing any issues and even willing to make changes, but he received no response. Earlier this week, Nacle painted the mural near demonstrations against a proposed law on the legitimate defense of police officers, a law critics have called a "kill permit." Opponents of the law argue it could make it easier for police to use lethal force in certain situations. The artist’s work has sparked a broader conversation about the balance between free speech and the portrayal of public figures, particularly those in law enforcement. While the city of Besançon has taken a firm stance against the mural, the controversy highlights the ongoing tensions in France regarding police conduct, public safety, and the rights of citizens to express dissent.