Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been released from prison after being sentenced to five years on October 21st for criminal conspiracy tied to illegal campaign financing during his 2007 presidential run. While appealing the verdict, Sarkozy will serve his sentence under strict house arrest and judicial supervision. He is barred from contacting Justice Ministry officials—including Minister Gérald Darmanin—and is prohibited from leaving France. A new appeal trial is scheduled for next spring.