PARIS; Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy was released from prison on Monday after a Paris court ruled he could await his appeal at home.
Sarkozy had been imprisoned since October 21 following his September conviction for conspiring to secure funds from late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi for his 2007 presidential campaign.
The court stated Sarkozy was not a flight risk, allowing him to be freed under judicial supervision, which includes restrictions on leaving France and contacting justice ministry officials.
His release comes as he appeals the five-year sentence handed down due to the “extraordinary seriousness” of the offense.
Sarkozy participated in Monday’s hearing via video link, describing prison as “tough” and “draining” while affirming his commitment to comply with judicial obligations. Sarkozy has denied any wrongdoing, calling himself a victim of revenge and political animosity.
His legal troubles date back several years, including a corruption conviction last year that required him to wear an electronic tag, now removed, and a separate conviction for illegal campaign financing during his 2012 re-election bid.
A final ruling on that case is expected this month. Sarkozy is also under investigation for allegedly assisting in witness tampering.
Sarkozy’s youngest son, Louis, celebrated his father’s release, posting “Vive la liberté” on social media with a childhood photo of them together.
