A former surgeon accused of abusing hundreds of young patients, sometimes while they were anesthetized, is about to stand trial in the largest child abuse case in French history. Joel Le Scouarnec, 73, is facing charges of assaulting or raping 299 children, mostly his former patients, between 1989 and 2014, mainly in Brittany. The trial in Vannes, northwest France, is the culmination of an extensive police investigation spanning several years.
The case is expected to raise troubling questions regarding whether Le Scouarnec received protection from colleagues and hospital management despite warnings about his behavior. Despite admitting some charges, he denies all allegations. The trial reveals a series of missed opportunities to prevent Le Scouarnec from interacting with children. Family members reportedly knew about his actions but did not intervene.
The revelations have deeply affected the victims, some of whom recounted instances of Le Scouarnec's alleged abuse during medical examinations. Many victims were in shock when contacted by the authorities as they had no recollection of the events due to being under anesthesia.
Le Scouarnec, characterized by French daily Le Monde as feeling all-powerful" and enjoying "flirting with danger, faces over 100 rape charges and 150 counts of sexual assault. The trial is expected to delve into how Le Scouarnec was able to commit these crimes undetected for so long.
Victims recount how the trial has brought back traumatic memories, providing a sense of closure for some but also deepening their trauma. The proceedings aim to shed light on the institutional and judicial missteps that allowed Le Scouarnec to continue his abuses for decades.
As the trial unfolds in Vannes, it is seen as a crucial moment for the victims to share their experiences and seek justice after enduring years of silence and trauma. The trial, set to last until June, is considered a significant step towards accountability and healing, offering a platform for victims to confront their past and seek closure.