Crown and defence lawyers have jointly recommended a six-year sentence for Eric Dejaeger, a former Catholic priest who pleaded guilty earlier this week to six counts of sexually abusing children in Igloolik, Nunavut, between 1978 and 1982. The victims, some as young as four, delivered impact statements detailing the long-lasting trauma caused by the abuse.
In court on Friday, Crown lawyer Emma Baasch highlighted the gravity of the charges, stating that no sentence can erase the harm but emphasized the importance of bringing the truth to light. Defence lawyer Scott Cowan acknowledged the significance of giving the victims a platform to share their experiences, adding, “The victims had a voice.”
The joint sentencing submission referenced a 2015 decision in which Dejaeger was convicted of 32 counts of child sexual abuse in the same community. Justice Faiyaz Alibhai is expected to deliver the sentencing decision next Thursday.
Support is available for those impacted by sexual abuse. Resources include the Kamatsiaqtut Nunavut Help Line at 1-800-265-3333 and the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310.
Source: Swifteradio.com
