French Surgeon Sentenced to 20 Years for Abusing Hundreds of Children

French Surgeon Joël Le Scouarnec Sentenced to 20 Years for Sex Abuse of Hundreds In a landmark trial that concluded in May 2025, French surgeon Joël Le Scouarnec was sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexually assaulting more than 299 victims, many of whom were children. The sentencing followed a lengthy investigation that uncovered a disturbing pattern of abuse spanning decades. Le Scouarnec's crimes came to light in 2017 following a complaint by a neighbor. A subsequent search of his home revealed child pornography, diaries detailing his abuse, and spreadsheets with names, ages, and addresses of more than 200 minors. The scale of his crimes shocked France, prompting widespread outrage and calls for greater protection of children. "It was a horrifying discovery," said one victim's advocate, speaking anonymously. "The sheer number of victims and the calculated nature of the abuse are truly appalling." The trial also highlighted failures within the French healthcare system to prevent Le Scouarnec from continuing his abuse for so long. The case has reignited the debate on child sexual abuse in France and the need for stronger preventative measures. The 20-year sentence reflects the severity of Le Scouarnec's crimes and serves as a stark warning against such acts.