Prosecutor Seeks Three-Year Prison Term for Creator of Telegram Group Leaking Inmate Data
French prosecutors have requested a three-year prison sentence with immediate incarceration for Kevin M., a detainee known as the creator of the Telegram group 'Balance ta Balance.' The group, which amassed over 20,000 followers, was used to publish personal data, including addresses and judicial records, of more than 100 prisoners and former convicts. Created in June 2023 at Tarascon prison, the channel presented itself as a space for denunciations within the inmate community. During the trial, the defendant argued that his actions were intended to generate buzz and reflect community expectations, denying any intent to provoke violence. However, victims described severe psychological distress, with one testifying that the exposure felt like a devastating blow. The case highlights issues of digital privacy and moderation on social platforms, noting that Telegram initially failed to cooperate with legal requests before collaborating in late 2024 following scrutiny of its leadership. Kevin M., already serving a 14-year sentence for kidnapping and theft, faces this additional penalty for violating the privacy of fellow inmates. The court is scheduled to deliver its final verdict on May 19, 2026.
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Prosecutor Seeks Three-Year Prison Term for Creator of Telegram Group Leaking Inmate Data
French prosecutors have requested a three-year prison sentence with immediate incarceration for Kevin M., a detainee known as the creator of the Telegram group 'Balance ta Balance.' The group, which amassed over 20,000 followers, was used to publish personal data, including addresses and judicial records, of more than 100 prisoners and former convicts. Created in June 2023 at Tarascon prison, the channel presented itself as a space for denunciations within the inmate community. During the trial, the defendant argued that his actions were intended to generate buzz and reflect community expectations, denying any intent to provoke violence. However, victims described severe psychological distress, with one testifying that the exposure felt like a devastating blow. The case highlights issues of digital privacy and moderation on social platforms, noting that Telegram initially failed to cooperate with legal requests before collaborating in late 2024 following scrutiny of its leadership. Kevin M., already serving a 14-year sentence for kidnapping and theft, faces this additional penalty for violating the privacy of fellow inmates. The court is scheduled to deliver its final verdict on May 19, 2026.
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