In a landmark ruling, French film director Christophe Ruggia was found guilty on Monday of sexually abusing actress Adèle Haenel when she was just 12 years old. This case is one of the first major #MeToo moments to shake the French film industry.

Ruggia, who has denied the accusations, won’t serve jail time. Instead, the Paris court handed him a four-year sentence, with two years suspended and two years under house arrest with an electronic tag. His lawyer, Fanny Colin, stated he plans to appeal the decision, maintaining his innocence.

Haenel, now 35, is known for her roles in acclaimed films like Portrait of a Lady On Fire. She first spoke out in 2019, accusing Ruggia of inappropriate touching and controlling behavior during the filming of The Devils in 2001. She also claimed he isolated her from her family and pressured her and co-star Vincent Rottiers into uncomfortable scenes.

The courtroom was filled with prominent figures from French cinema, including Judith Godrèche, a leader in France’s #MeToo movement, and director Céline Sciamma, Haenel’s former partner. Godrèche embraced Haenel after the verdict was announced.

Haenel has been a key voice in France’s #MeToo movement, which has faced a more muted response compared to the U.S. She recently left the film industry, criticizing the industry’s reluctance to address sexual predators still working in the field.

Ruggia’s case is part of a broader reckoning in French cinema. Gérard Depardieu, one of the country’s most famous actors, is set to face trial in March 2024 over allegations of sexual assault on a film set. He denies the charges.

This verdict marks a significant step forward in holding powerful figures in the film industry accountable, even as challenges remain in addressing systemic issues.