The offence of contributing to a criminal organisation: a new criminal approach to master

The introduction of Article 450-1-1 of the Criminal Code, from the Law of 13 June 2025, marks a notable development in the fight against organised crime. This new offence targets anyone contributing to a criminal organisation, while redefining the criteria for criminal liability.

The reinforced moral element of the new offence

The text highlights the requirement of a reinforced moral element, resting both on the will to participate in a structured organisation and on precise knowledge of the offences being prepared. The dual nature of the material element, covering both organisers and executants, opens significant prospects in terms of legal qualification and defence strategy.

Confiscation and the procedural dilemma for the defence

The procedural stakes linked to the sentences incurred, in particular as regards asset confiscation, introduce a real dilemma for the prosecution and offer a strategic lever for defence lawyers.

Sources

Source: Village de la Justice, The offence of contributing to a criminal organisation: a reading of Article 450-1-1 from the Law of 13 June 2025 (March 2026), by Mr. Charles Bruguière, lawyer at the Paris Bar.