A highly unusual case came before Monaco’s criminal court, involving a 21-year-old woman who was convicted after using her sister’s identity throughout legal proceedings…
The defendant had initially been arrested in the Principality in possession of cannabis and several thousand euros in cash, linked to drug trafficking activity. During questioning by police, prosecutors and judges, she consistently gave her sister’s name, leading to a conviction and prison sentence under the false identity, along with a ban from entering Monaco.
As reported by Monaco Matin, the deception only came to light when her family reported her missing under her real name, prompting authorities to uncover the truth. The court heard that, had the situation gone unnoticed, her sister could have unknowingly faced legal consequences in Monaco.
Questioned in court, the young woman admitted she had panicked and failed to correct the false identity. Prosecutors argued she had deliberately attempted to evade responsibility, while her defence described the act as a mistake.
The court ultimately found her guilty of identity theft and handed down an additional one-month prison sentence, bringing a bizarre and troubling case to a close.