Since it was completely renovated, there is no more VIP area at the Health Prison. The mayor of Levallois-Perret, 71, Patrick Balkany, sentenced to four years in prison for tax evasion, spent the night from Friday to Saturday in a standard single cell: 9 square meters, with a shower and toilet, a small fridge, an electric plate, a television and a fixed telephone.
All his conversations can be listened to, with the exception of his exchanges with his lawyer, Eric Dupond-Moretti.
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No stay in the "Arrivals Area"
His cell is located on the second floor, in the "vulnerable neighborhood" (QPV). This corner of the prison is reserved for "media" detainees or those who might be attacked by other prisoners because of their profile or the offenses committed. The head of mission for the security of the President of the Republic, Alexandre Benalla, spent a week at the beginning of the year. Currently there are ten detainees, including police officers.
The elected representative of the Hauts-de-Seine does not pass by the "quarter of the arrivals", usually unavoidable. This step, which can last about ten days, can detect the profile of the person received.
The hope of getting out of prison seems slim
On Friday, Patrick Balkany's lawyers have filed a release application, which will be reviewed no later than two months. However, the hope of coming out of La Santé seems slim. A new judgment awaits Patrick Balkany on October 18th for money laundering and corruption. The prosecutor has required seven years in prison.