Homophobic Assaults in Loiret Linked to Grindr Lures
Between July 4 and July 7, 2025, several gay men, aged 25 to 35, fell victim to violent ambush-style attacks in Le Malesherbois, located in France’s Loiret region. The perpetrators used the popular dating app Grindr to approach and lure their targets.
Staged Dates Turn into Targeted Attacks
The attackers posed as potential romantic matches on Grindr, inviting victims to meet at specific locations under the guise of going on a date. Upon arrival, the individuals were led into apartment buildings by someone impersonating their online contact. Once inside, they were met by a group lying in wait.
The victims were threatened with weapons—knives or firearms—then verbally and physically assaulted. In several cases, the assailants demanded valuables or forced the victims to make bank transfers under extreme duress.
Police Intervene and Make Swift Arrests
Thanks to prompt reporting by victims, authorities launched an investigation led by the Pithiviers research division. On Monday, July 7, a timely call to local police allowed them to interrupt an ongoing attack. Two suspects were apprehended at the scene.
Further investigations and interrogations led to the identification of two more accomplices. The group has now been connected to four violent robberies motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ bias, all sharing the same method of operation.
Legal Proceedings Underway
On Wednesday, July 9, the four suspects were brought before the Orléans public prosecutor’s office.
- Two adult suspects have been placed in pretrial detention under a delayed court appearance process.
- Two minors are currently under judicial supervision and will appear before a juvenile court.
Call for Additional Victims to Come Forward
In a public address, Prosecutor Emmanuelle Bochenek-Puren encouraged anyone who may have experienced similar incidents to report them promptly to local police or gendarmerie in order to file a formal complaint.
📈 Ongoing Concern: Rise in Anti-LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes
Data from France’s Ministry of the Interior reveal that anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes rose by 5% in 2024, a slower increase than previous years. However, between 2016 and 2023, these types of offenses climbed by an average of 15% annually, underscoring a persistent threat to the LGBTQIA+ community.