The verdict in France’s most significant child sexual abuse trial is anticipated Wednesday, concluding a three-month examination of former surgeon Joël Le Scouarnec, 74. He faces a potential 20-year sentence for sexually assaulting 299 minors, primarily children around 11, across three decades. Many assaults occurred while victims were under anesthesia or post-surgery. During the trial in Vannes, Brittany, Le Scouarnec confessed to committing “hideous acts” but denied some charges. His upcoming sentence would run concurrently with a 15-year term he is currently serving for previous convictions involving child rape.
Victims’ lawyers are concerned Le Scouarnec could be released by 2030 due to parole considerations. Consequently, prosecutors have suggested he remain in a supervised treatment center post-release. Although many victims lack recollections of their assaults, evidence was gathered through Le Scouarnec’s meticulous digital documents detailing his actions. Hundreds of witnesses, including family members, testified against him, but some allegations fell outside legal prosecutability due to time limits.
This case has prompted scrutiny of the French medical system, which permitted Le Scouarnec to practice despite past warnings, including a 2005 conviction for child abuse image possession. Advocates argue he should have lost his medical license after that incident. The trial has raised questions about the treatment of child abuse allegations, especially involving doctors, amidst a shortage of medical professionals. Victims experienced the proceedings via video links in an overflow auditorium, highlighting the case’s high public interest and the strain on judicial resources.
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