Former Canadian Catholic Priest Sentenced to Six Years for Child Abuse

A former Roman Catholic priest, Eric Dejaeger, was sentenced to six years in prison on Thursday for the sexual abuse of seven children in a remote Canadian community over four decades ago.

The abuse, which occurred between 1978 and 1982, took place in Igloolik, Nunavut, a small hamlet in Canada’s Far North with a population of just 2,000. Dejaeger’s victims included six girls and one boy, all between the ages of 4 and 9.

A History of Abuse

This latest conviction marks the fifth time Dejaeger, now 77 years old, has been sentenced for the sexual abuse of children, with previous convictions in Nunavut and Alberta. Over the years, dozens of victims have come forward with similar allegations against him.

Impact on Victims and Their Families

During the trial, five victims testified, describing the long-term trauma inflicted by Dejaeger’s actions. Justice Faiyaz Alibhai, who presided over the case, emphasized the profound impact of the abuse.

“He destroyed their childhood, hurt their relationships with their families, and ruined their connection to their faith,” Alibhai said, according to Global News.

The judge further highlighted how the trauma extended beyond the victims themselves, affecting their children and future generations. Many of those abused reported severe emotional struggles, difficulty in maintaining personal relationships, and an irreparable loss of faith in the church.

Dejaeger’s Statement and Sentencing

Before the court delivered its sentence, Dejaeger expressed remorse, stating that he deeply regretted his actions.

“I would like to ask for forgiveness for the cruel things I have done,” he said. “I am a changed person. Over the past 40 years, I have not reoffended.”

Despite his apology, the court imposed a six-year prison term, reinforcing the severity of his crimes and the lasting harm inflicted on his victims.

A Pattern of Abuse in the Catholic Church

Dejaeger’s case is one of many historical abuse scandals linked to the Catholic Church in Canada. Over the years, the church has faced numerous lawsuits and investigations into allegations of sexual abuse, particularly in Indigenous communities.