Former French president Jacques Chirac has been placed under judicial investigation over allegations of improper use of city funds when he was mayor of Paris.
It is the first time a former French head of state has been put under such an investigation.
Mr Chirac, who lost his immunity from prosecution after leaving office in May, has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
The investigation is into claims that Paris funds were used to pay the salaries of individuals linked to Chirac's Rally for the Republic Party, who had no connection to City Hall.
In all 20 people are being investigated.
Earlier today Mr Chirac was interviewed by a judge on the matter.
In July, he was questioned at his own offices by a judge conducting another corruption probe.
Mr Chirac was mayor of Paris from 1977 to 1995.
