A French court has sentenced former surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec, 74, to the maximum 20 years in prison for sexually abusing 299 patients, mostly children, between 1989 and 2014—making him France’s most prolific paedophile.
Le Scouarnec showed no emotion as Judge Aude Burési delivered the verdict, highlighting his deliberate targeting of vulnerable, often sedated patients. Although sentenced to 20 years, French law requires a two-thirds mandatory minimum. With seven years already served, he may be eligible for parole by 2030—sparking outrage among victims and advocates.
“To think one day he could walk free while we live with the damage – it’s disgusting,” said victim Amélie Lévêque. Lawyers and victims have criticized the sentence as grossly inadequate, given the scale of abuse. “Twenty years is nothing for 299 lives shattered,” said Francesca Satta, representing several victims.
The trial exposed deep systemic failures. Despite a 2005 conviction for possessing child abuse images, Le Scouarnec continued practicing. Many now accuse the medical system of negligence.
The National Order of Doctors admitted “failings in communication” and regretted not stopping him sooner. Protesters unfurled a banner with names of victims outside court, demanding institutional accountability.
Le Scouarnec, already serving 15 years from a 2020 conviction, confessed during the 14-week trial and apologized. But many victims questioned the sincerity of his words, describing him as emotionless and rehearsed.
“This is not just about one man,” said Louis-Marie, a survivor. “It’s about the system that protected him.”
As France reckons with this horrifying chapter, victims hope the case sparks overdue reform—not just punishment, but protection.
