Retired French doctor admits to 'despicable acts' in child rape trial

A retired surgeon accused of raping and sexually assaulting hundreds of young patients, some while they were under anesthetic, said at the opening of his trial in western France on Feb 24 that he had committed "despicable" acts.

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VANNES, France - A retired surgeon accused of raping and sexually assaulting hundreds of young patients, some while they were under anesthetic, said at the opening of his trial in western France on Feb 24 that he had committed "despicable" acts.

Joel Le Scouarnec, 74, faces charges of aggravated rape and sexual assault against 299 victims, most of them children at the time, in a case that raises uncomfortable questions for France's publicly run healthcare system, victims and rights groups say.

Wearing a black jacket and glasses, he spoke in a steady voice to confirm his name, date of birth and other personal information in the small provincial court room. A number of his alleged victims followed proceedings from a nearby building.

"I have committed despicable acts," Le Scouarnec told the court. "I'm aware that the harm I've caused is beyond repair.

"I owe it to all these people and their loved ones to admit my actions and their consequences, which they've endured and will keep having to endure all their lives."

In what is considered France's worst case of pedocriminality to go to trial, Le Scouarnec's alleged abuse of patients spanned 25 years, from 1989 to 2014.