French Streamers Arrested in Connection with Jean Pormanove’s Death Facing Multiple Charges

Two prominent French streamers have been placed in police custody amid an extensive investigation surrounding the tragic death of Jean Pormanove, also known as Raphaël Graven. His demise occurred last year after what has been described as an agonizing ten-day period of mistreatment, which was broadcast live online.

Pormanove, who was 46 at the time of his death on August 18 while streaming on Kick, reportedly endured severe abuse during long sessions featuring fellow content creators Owen ‘Naruto’ Cenazendotti and Safine Hamadi. Reports indicate that these marathon broadcasts included shocking acts of violence, sleep deprivation, and even the forced consumption of harmful substances.

The investigation into this case has garnered significant attention, making it one of the most scrutinized streaming-related incidents in France. Following Pormanove’s death, both Cenazendotti and Hamadi stated that the content was consensual, but an autopsy found that his death was not directly attributed to any actions taken by another individual. At his funeral, Pormanove’s mother notably defended the streamers, describing them as “great people” who “never mistreated” her son.

Charges Against French Streamers Following Pormanove’s Passing

Despite these claims of innocence, both Cenazendotti and Hamadi have been taken into custody as the investigation unfolds. According to a report from Le Monde, the streamers are facing several serious charges, including assault, incitement to hatred, abuse of a vulnerable individual, and the illegal recording and broadcasting of violent activities.

In a statement, a magistrate indicated that these detentions were part of a preliminary investigation commenced in December 2024. Prosecutors had opened the inquiry months before Pormanove’s death after they uncovered disturbing footage of him being verbally and physically assaulted during livestreams, including experiences such as being struck, having his hair yanked, and being shot at with paintball guns.

According to Entrevue, the initial period of police custody can extend up to 48 hours, with a potential for further extension pending approval from judicial authorities. Investigators are diligently working to clarify the full extent of the alleged violations and whether the depicted actions violate French criminal law.

French streamer Jean Pormanove — Instagram/jeanpormanove

As of now, no formal charges have been brought against the streamers. This case has also led to renewed scrutiny concerning groups associated with Pormanove. In December, authorities initiated an investigation into his former streaming collective, Lokal, which appears to have resurfaced on Twitch under the name OGK Decoy. The channel, managed by Gwen Cenazendotti, brother of Owen ‘Naruto’ Cenazendotti, faces allegations of attempting to evade moderation while continuing to engage in staged violence and humiliation of new creators.

In the wake of Pormanove’s death, French authorities sought to impose a nationwide ban on Kick due to concerns regarding public safety. However, their request was ultimately denied by a court, which deemed such a prohibition disproportionate.

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