PIP Boss Under Arrest

The owner of a French company who manufactured the PIP breast implants that have been recalled due to fears that they could rupture whilst they were in the body may be facing criminal charges.

His lawyer has made a statement saying that Jean-Claude Mas who is 72 years old, had been freed on bail to the tune of 100,000 euros but may still face charges of involuntary injury. .

Back in 2010 PIP implants were banned in France after it was discovered that they were made from a low grade silicone whish was not safe to be used in humans. It is thought that the low grade silicone could rupture and leak.

In total it is thought that around 400,000 women had the implants fitted and these women were spread around 65 countries.

Police have searched Mr Mas’ home in accordance with French policy and he was then taken to a police station in Marseilles. His lawyer made a statement to say that Mr Mas was not well and was waiting to see his doctor. Mr Mas’ age is thought to be worrying his lawyer.

Mr Mas was arrested because he admitted to French police that he instructed his employees to hide the low grade silicone when there was an inspection of his factory.

It was originally thought that he might be charged with manslaughter but the judge found no link and therefore charged him with involuntary injury.

The lawyer that is representing the women who have been fitted with these implants has welcomed his arrest and have made a statement to say that they are pleased that action is being taken. They went on to say that they would ideally like a formal investigation into the company and to bring those responsible to account.

It is thought that PIP deceived safety inspectors for around 13 years.