Bastia: Dangerous chase with weapons leads to prison sentences!
On November 3, 2025, a court in Bastia convicted two men after a risky police chase. Serious crimes in focus.

Bastia: Dangerous chase with weapons leads to prison sentences!
In Bastia, a highly explosive incident recently reached the courthouse: Sacha Casanova and Georges Patacchini stood before the Tribunal correctionnel and had to answer for serious offenses. While Casanova got away with a 22-month prison sentence, to be carried out immediately, Patacchini received a suspended sentence of 12 months after he refused to obey police orders and transported a weapon. Both men were involved in a spectacular car chase with officers in Bastia city center on October 9th.
One of the highlights of the trial was the discovery of a firearm. Loud Corsica Matin Casanova stated that the weapon had been given to him by a collector. Patacchini, however, denied having any knowledge of the weapon, which led to an interesting twist in the trial. Prosecutor Jean-Philippe Navarre had called for a harsher sentence for Casanova, while he suggested a lighter sentence for Patacchini.
The dark past
Sacha Casanova's involvement in the criminal justice system is not surprising considering his family and their background. His father, Richard Casanova, was a well-known figure in the infamous 2000s Gang de la Brise de Mer, a criminal syndicate active in Corsica since the late 1970s.
This gang is known for numerous violent crimes and has shaped Corsica in recent decades. The brutal confrontations and robberies he committed, including the infamous attack on the Union de banques suisses in Geneva, are just a few examples of his unscrupulous activities. The gang's wealth was reportedly extensive, estimated at between 120 and 150 million euros, mostly from illegal dealings and robberies.
Current crime situation in France
The Casanova case also highlights the current crime situation in France. An increase in violent crime has been observed for years Statista reported. In particular, murder rates and drug-related crimes in urban areas have increased as inter-gang conflicts often lead to bloody clashes. Numerous murders are directly linked to drug trafficking.
France faces a variety of challenges, ranging from drug abuse to violent clashes between rival gangs. These circumstances pose major problems for the authorities and highlight the need for more effective action against the roots of crime.
The outcome of the proceedings against Casanova and Patacchini could therefore have far-reaching consequences not only for those involved, but also for the entire community. The debates about the dark side of society, which are reflected in such criminal cases, are more relevant than ever.