Former French Surgeon Faces Trial for Alleged Abuse of 299 Victims
Joël Le Scouarnec, a former surgeon, stands trial in France for sexually abusing 299 victims, primarily children, over 30 years.
Overview
Joël Le Scouarnec, a 74-year-old former surgeon, is on trial in France for alleged sexual abuse of 299 victims, the majority being children. This extensive trial follows a pattern of abuse documented over three decades, with Le Scouarnec admitting to some past offenses but lacking memory of many incidents. His previous convictions and a recent public outcry aim to confront longstanding societal taboos concerning sexual abuse. Activists rally in support of victims outside the courthouse as the trial unfolds.
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Joël Le Scouarnec is charged with rape, sexual assault, and indecent acts committed with violence or surprise. He faces up to 20 years in prison.
The abuse came to light after a 6-year-old neighbor reported Le Scouarnec in 2017. Evidence includes notebooks detailing his actions and a large collection of inappropriate images and videos found during a search of his home.
Activists hope the trial will empower other victims and help expose other abusers by lifting taboos surrounding sexual abuse. It is seen as a step towards a justice system that better protects victims and convicts aggressors.
Le Scouarnec was previously convicted in 2005 for possessing and importing child pornography and sentenced to four months of suspended prison time. In 2020, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison for the rape and sexual assault of four children.
History
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