Ex-Figure Skating Coach Sentenced to 7 Years for Sexual Abuse of Minors

Sébastien C. was convicted of abusing two teenage students, with the case highlighting systemic issues in the sport.

Sébastien C., a former figure skating coach, was sentenced to seven years in prison for sexually abusing two minors, aged 13 and 15 at the time of the incidents in 2007-2008.
The court found that the acts were committed under moral coercion, stemming from the victims' young age, the authority of the coach, and the significant age difference.
The case was brought to light after the victims were inspired by the public testimony of Sarah Abitbol, a former skater who exposed abuse in the sport in her 2020 book.
In addition to the prison sentence, Sébastien C. was permanently banned from working with minors in any capacity.
The trial also underscored a broader culture of silence and impunity within figure skating, as noted by advocates for victims' rights.