Particle.news

Download on the App Store

French Surgeon on Trial for Abusing 299 Patients; Ex-Wife Accused of Silence

Joël Le Scouarnec, convicted pedophile, faces new charges in France’s largest child abuse case, while victims allege his ex-wife knew and failed to act.

Prison officers escort ex-surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec from a vehicle, during his trial, where he is charged with aggravated rape and sexual assault against hundreds of children over several decades, in Vannes, Brittany, France, February 25, 2025. REUTERS/Stephane Mahe
This court sketch created on Feb. 24, 2025 shows retired surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec on the opening day of his trial in Vannes, northern France.
A woman believed to be Marie-France, ex-wife of ex-surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec, walks to attend the trial of Scouarnec, charged with aggravated rape and sexual assault against hundreds of children over several decades, in Vannes, Brittany, France, February 25, 2025. REUTERS/Stephane Mahe
Image

Overview

  • Joël Le Scouarnec, a 74-year-old retired surgeon, is accused of sexually abusing 299 victims, including 256 minors, over a 25-year period from 1989 to 2014.
  • The abuse allegedly occurred in hospitals and health centers across France, often involving unconscious patients during post-operative care.
  • Le Scouarnec meticulously documented his crimes in diaries, which investigators uncovered in 2017 following accusations from a six-year-old girl.
  • Victims and family members claim his ex-wife, Marie-France Le Scouarnec, was aware of his crimes but chose not to report them, allegedly prioritizing financial stability.
  • If convicted, Le Scouarnec faces a maximum 20-year prison sentence under French law, which does not allow cumulative sentencing for multiple offenses.