Paris, France – French rapper Nabil Boukhobza, known professionally as Naps, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for rape, with an immediate warrant for his arrest. The verdict, delivered today, February 19, 2026, concludes a high-profile case that has gripped France. The charges stem from an incident that occurred on October 1, 2021, in a Paris hotel room, where Boukhobza was accused of sexually assaulting a woman whereas she was asleep. This conviction marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation surrounding sexual assault and accountability within the French entertainment industry.
The case centered around allegations that Naps violated a 24-year-old woman while she was sleeping after an evening spent with the rapper and her friends. Throughout the trial, Naps vehemently denied the accusations, claiming any sexual contact was consensual. However, the court found the prosecution’s evidence compelling enough to deliver a guilty verdict. The severity of the sentence reflects the seriousness with which the court viewed the alleged crime. The prosecution had requested a seven-year sentence with a deferred committal order, a request that was ultimately granted in full by the court.
Details of the Incident and the Trial
The events leading to the conviction unfolded in October 2021. According to reports, the victim and two friends were invited to spend the evening with Naps in a Parisian hotel room. The prosecution argued that Naps took advantage of the woman while she was incapacitated, while the defense maintained that any sexual activity was consensual. Naps, 40 years old at the time of the verdict, testified that he would “never” engage in sexual activity with someone who was asleep, stating, “It’s impossible. It’s not me.” 20 Minutes reported on these statements during the trial.
The trial, which began on Monday, February 16, 2026, featured testimony from both the alleged victim and Naps himself. The prosecution presented evidence they believed demonstrated a lack of consent, while the defense attempted to discredit the accuser’s account. The court ultimately sided with the prosecution, finding Naps guilty of rape. The immediate arrest warrant means Boukhobza will be taken into custody to begin serving his sentence. The case has drawn considerable media attention in France, sparking debate about consent, power dynamics and the treatment of sexual assault allegations.
Additional Legal Challenges for the Rapper
This conviction is not the only legal trouble facing the Marseilles-born rapper. In July 2024, Naps was placed under investigation in the Var region of France concerning allegations of rape and sexual assault involving three other young women. RTL reports that he also denies these accusations, claiming they are unfounded. These ongoing investigations add another layer of complexity to the legal challenges confronting the artist. The outcome of these separate cases remains to be seen, but they underscore the seriousness of the allegations against him.
During the recent trial, questions were raised regarding the credibility of one of the victim’s friends, who was described as a “mythomaniac” by the defense. This testimony, however, did not sway the court’s decision. The focus remained on the core allegation of rape and the evidence presented by the prosecution. The court’s decision to issue an immediate arrest warrant suggests a strong conviction in the guilt of the accused.
Naps’ Career and Public Image
Naps rose to prominence with his hit song “La Kiffance,” achieving significant success in the French music scene. His music often reflects the realities of life in Marseilles, resonating with a large audience. However, this conviction is likely to have a devastating impact on his career and public image. The allegations and subsequent conviction have already led to widespread condemnation and calls for his music to be removed from streaming platforms and radio stations. The long-term consequences for his career remain uncertain, but this legal battle has irrevocably altered his trajectory.
The case highlights the growing scrutiny faced by public figures accused of sexual misconduct. In recent years, the #MeToo movement has empowered victims to come forward and demand accountability, leading to increased legal challenges and public condemnation for alleged perpetrators. The Naps case is a stark reminder that fame and success do not shield individuals from the consequences of their actions.
Impact and Reactions
The verdict in the Naps case has elicited strong reactions from various sectors of French society. Advocacy groups for victims of sexual assault have praised the court’s decision, viewing it as a victory for justice and a step towards creating a safer environment for women. Others have expressed concern about the potential for false accusations and the importance of due process. The case has undoubtedly sparked a national conversation about sexual consent, accountability, and the challenges faced by victims of sexual violence.
Legal experts suggest that the conviction could set a precedent for future cases involving allegations of sexual assault. The court’s willingness to issue an immediate arrest warrant demonstrates a firm stance against such crimes. The case also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and the careful consideration of evidence in determining guilt or innocence. The outcome will likely be closely watched by legal professionals and advocacy groups alike.
The French justice system has been under increasing pressure to address sexual assault cases effectively. This conviction, alongside other recent high-profile cases, suggests a growing commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and providing support to victims. However, challenges remain in ensuring that all victims feel safe coming forward and that their cases are handled with sensitivity and respect.
As of today, February 19, 2026, Naps is in custody awaiting the commencement of his seven-year prison sentence. Further updates regarding the ongoing investigations into the additional allegations of rape and sexual assault are expected in the coming months. The next step in the legal process will involve the formal processing of the sentence and the determination of any potential appeals. The public will be closely following these developments as the case continues to unfold.
This case serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of sexual assault and the importance of upholding the principles of justice and accountability. It also underscores the need for continued dialogue and education to prevent such crimes from occurring in the future. The World Today Journal will continue to provide updates on this story as it develops.
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