After three months of hearings, the prosecution has concluded its case against former surgeon Joël Le Scouarnec, who faces charges of sexual assaults and rapes involving 299 victims, the majority of whom were minors at the time of the offenses.

The proceedings took place at the criminal court in Vannes, with sentencing discussions expected to resume following the conclusion of defense arguments.

The gravity of the accusations has drawn significant attention, as even a single instance of rape with aggravating circumstances could see Le Scouarnec sentenced to up to 20 years in prison.

Prosecutor Stéphane Kellenberger is anticipated to request the maximum penalty based on the severity of the case.

Le Scouarnec, who was previously convicted in 2020 in Saintes to a 15-year prison term for similar offenses against young girls, has been described by various parties involved in the trial as a serious threat to society.

Experts presented during the trial have characterized Le Scouarnec as entirely responsible for his actions, highlighting a substantial risk of recidivism.

Findings from 2023 indicate that he exhibits 'no compassion' for his victims, and psychiatrist Isabelle Alamone has deemed his profile 'very concerning' with a 'significant criminal dangerousness.’ She emphasized that incarceration serves as the best guarantee against potential future offenses.

As the trial progressed, defense attorneys pointed out what they referred to as Le Scouarnec's 'evolution,' citing his confessions concerning some of the charges and recognition of additional offenses that fell outside the statute of limitations, including allegations of sexual violence against a family member.

However, Le Scouarnec continues to assert a lack of memory regarding individual incidents, reportedly maintaining meticulous records of his actions in notebooks.

The repeated claims of amnesia have led to frustration among the prosecution and anger from victims’ representatives.

Defense lawyers have faced challenges, with many arguing that Le Scouarnec's apologies seemed disingenuous and mechanical, lacking heartfelt sincerity.

Claims made by Le Scouarnec, stating he has no current attraction to minors, have been met with skepticism by the prosecution, which has emphasized the need to thoroughly evaluate the psychological aspects of the case beyond mere pedophilia.

Legal representatives of victims have warned that reducing the matter to a simple case of pedophilia would be a significant misjudgment.

Many have pointed to Le Scouarnec's history, including a previous conviction in 2005 for possession of child pornography, which resulted in a suspended sentence that allowed him to continue his medical career without restrictions.

The case reveals a complex narrative of professional malpractice and extensive criminal behavior spanning multiple decades, culminating in his arrest in 2017.

The trial is set to continue with defense pleas and a final word from Le Scouarnec, leading up to deliberations by the court’s five judges.

A verdict is expected by May 28.