French Surgeon Admits Guilt in Landmark Child Abuse Trial

The trial of former surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec reveals distressing accounts of sexual assault against children and the devastating aftermath experienced by victims and their families.

French ex-surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec has entered the final stages of a shocking trial in France, where he stands accused of sexually abusing hundreds of young patients, some as young as 15. Testifying in court, the 74-year-old admitted to being "responsible" for the deaths of two victims, whose families claim their suicides were a direct result of the trauma inflicted by his actions.

The court heard harrowing testimonies from family members, including that of Mathias Vinet, who succumbed to addiction and mental health struggles post-abuse. "I keep the memory of those two photos... They died, and I am responsible," Le Scouarnec stated during the proceedings in Vannes, Brittany. The trial has uncovered a painful history from between 1989 and 2014, during which Le Scouarnec allegedly sexually assaulted 299 patients, many while they were under anesthesia or just waking up from surgeries.

More than 250 of the reported victims were minors. Police traced many of them through detailed diaries kept by Le Scouarnec, where he noted graphic accounts of his assaults. Le Scouarnec admitted to harrowing acts, stating that he "understood and shared the suffering" caused to countless victims. This admission echoes throughout the court, where emotional confrontations between Le Scouarnec and his victims have become a poignant feature of the trial.

Survivors have shared that the abuse has severely affected their mental health, leading to disorders, anxiety, and addiction. Reflecting on the impact, one victim shared, "You got into my head, it's destroyed me, I became a whole other person I don't recognize anymore." The court proceedings underscore the systemic failures that allowed Le Scouarnec to remain in practice despite earlier warnings.

Acknowledgment of his deeds has provided some solace to the victims, stated Romane Codou, one of their lawyers, as they strive to bring closure to an unimaginable ordeal. The National Order of Doctors expressed regret for their part in enabling Le Scouarnec's continued practice despite clear warnings regarding his actions.

As the trial, considered the largest child abuse case in French history, approaches its verdict date on May 28, attention from the public and politicians remains considerably muted, prompting outcry from victim advocacy groups. Despite being already sentenced to 15 years in prison for previous offenses against minors, Le Scouarnec could face an additional 20 years based on findings from this trial.