Date: May 28, 2025
By: BlogHear News Desk
A verdict is expected this Wednesday in the high-profile trial of Joel Le Scouarnec, a former French surgeon who has admitted to sexually abusing hundreds of patients—most of them minors—between 1989 and 2014.
Le Scouarnec, 74, often described as France’s most prolific paedophile, is already serving a 15-year prison sentence handed down in December 2020 for raping and assaulting four children, including two nieces. He now faces an additional maximum sentence of 20 years.
Trial Details and Victim Testimonies
The trial, which began in late February in Brittany, has seen dozens of victims testify about the lasting impact of the abuse they endured during childhood. Many described how their lives were profoundly shaped by the trauma.
In a closed-door session in March, Le Scouarnec admitted to sexually abusing 299 victims, many while they were under anesthesia or recovering from surgery. He kept detailed diaries documenting the assaults, which helped authorities identify numerous victims, many of whom had no conscious memory of the abuse.
During his final statements, Le Scouarnec expressed remorse, saying:
“I can no longer look at myself the same way because I am a paedophile and a child rapist. Many things have been said. I don’t necessarily remember everything now… but what I’ve witnessed [in court] is the suffering for which I am responsible.” He did not seek leniency.
Impact on Victims and Public Reaction
The trial has stirred public outrage, especially over how Le Scouarnec managed to continue practicing medicine despite a 2005 conviction for downloading paedophile images.
Family members of victims, including the grandparents of Mathias Vinet—who died by suicide four years ago—have spoken about the devastating effects of the abuse and subsequent trauma. The Victims of Joel Le Scouarnec Collective expressed frustration that the case has not received adequate attention from politicians or society, calling for institutional accountability.
Ahead of the verdict, several victims and supporters protested outside the courthouse. Catherine, mother of a victim, said:
“It’s a pity, but my hope is that now our message can be passed on—not just for those hurt, but for future generations.” She urged institutions to respond effectively.
Responses from Le Scouarnec and Legal Teams
Le Scouarnec attended the trial throughout its 14-week duration and repeatedly apologized for his actions. However, many victims found his apologies insincere. Victim Manon Lemoine remarked:
“I never saw tears running down his cheeks.” Another victim, Louis-Marie, said he hoped Le Scouarnec would remain imprisoned to prevent further harm.
Le Scouarnec’s lawyer, Maxime Tessier, defended his client’s sincerity, describing his confession as a “moment of truth and justice.” Tessier also criticized the medical system for failing to act despite rumors about Le Scouarnec’s behaviour.
Institutional Accountability
The National Order of Doctors (Cnom), which has filed a lawsuit against Le Scouarnec, acknowledged its failures in a March statement:
“We deeply regret that the former surgeon was not prevented from practicing. This situation has highlighted poor communication within the Order of Doctors.”
The court’s verdict, expected on Wednesday afternoon, will conclude one of France’s most significant trials related to sexual abuse in the medical profession.
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