Investigators in France are now seeking more victims of a convicted paedophile surgeon, Joël Le Scouarnec, who is on trial for sexually abusing or raping 299 young patients. His confession to all charges has marked a significant turning point in what is France’s largest child abuse case.

Le Scouarnec, 74, who acknowledged the seriousness of his actions at his trial last month, had previously only admitted to abuse on a case-by-case basis, denying some of the charges. However, it has been revealed that he recognizes and admits to abusing all individuals mentioned in his personal handwritten notes — over 300 names.

His lawyer, Maxime Tessier, stated that Le Scouarnec had informed the court, which was convening in private, of his commitment to telling the truth. The prosecutor’s office in Rennes is now investigating to identify and assist any other victims mentioned in the surgeon’s written confessions.

Le Scouarnec’s admission followed ten days of testimony from among the 158 male and 141 female victims, with the majority being under the age of 15 when the abuse took place. The abuse occurred between 1989 and 2014 during Le Scouarnec’s tenure at various public and private medical establishments across Brittany and western France. Many of these abuses took place while the victims were anesthetized or recovering from surgery.

Tessier characterized the moment as a critical instance of truth and justice, highlighting that Le Scouarnec understands the potential for further investigations and support for victims who may have been overlooked by past prosecutions.

Frédérique Giffard, representing several of the victims, hailed the admission, suggesting it is essential for the victims to proceed with healing.

Le Scouarnec, currently serving a 15-year term for sexually abusing four young girls, was initially found guilty in 2005 for possessing child sexual abuse material. Despite his conviction, he continued to work in the medical field, highlighting a glaring oversight by his hospital employers and health authorities.

Francesca Satta, another lawyer for victims, estimates there could be up to 400 victims, and the ongoing investigation is causing distress, especially among victims in their 30s and 40s who only recently learned of the abuse.

A helpline directory is provided for those affected or concerned about child abuse:

• In the UK, NSPCC is available for children at 0800 1111 and for adults concerned about a child at 0808 800 5000. Napac offers support to adult survivors on 0808 801 0331.
• In the US, contact the Childhelp abuse hotline at 800-422-4453.
• In Australia, contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 for children, young adults, parents, and teachers; and the Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380 for adult survivors. Find international helplines at Child Helplines International.
  
  Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/21/french-investigators-seek-further-victims-of-paedophile-surgeon-joel-le-scouarnec