Chiropractor from Amqui calls for lenient punishment for child pornography!

Chiropractor from Amqui calls for lenient punishment for child pornography!

In a scandalous case from Amqui, Quebec, chiropractor Olivier Chagnon has been sentenced to probation after being found guilty of serious sexual offenses against minors. The conviction dates back to November 2024 and includes four charges: sexual assault, touching, and production and possession of child pornography, Radio-Canada reports.

The court decided not to impose Chagnon's sentence until next year. He has publicly questioned the one-year sentence that is the minimum sentence for producing child pornography under Canadian criminal law. According to prosecutor Simon Blanchette, Chagnon considers this punishment to be disproportionate. Legal arguments on this issue will continue in 2026 at the Palais de Justice in Amqui. His lawyer, Caroline Bérubé, has not yet commented on the allegations.

Professional consequences and safety measures

In addition to his criminal problems, Chagnon was barred from the professional register by the Ordre des chiropraticiens du Québec for three years, meaning he is not allowed to work during that time. Although he can currently continue to practice, there is a strict restriction in place that prohibits him from contact with patients under the age of 18. The Disciplinary Committee has emphasized that its profession requires a relationship of absolute trust between chiropractors and patients, which is why this measure is necessary to ensure public safety. At the end of the three years, his practice will then be limited to adults for five years if there is no further legal dispute.

Chagnon's actions occurred during a swimming activity in the summer of 2022 and have not only criminal consequences, but also massive professional and social consequences. The victim's identity also remains completely anonymous due to a court order.

Social and legal reactions

Chagnon's case falls into the broader context of the fight against child pornography in Canada. As early as 2001, the Canadian government implemented various legislative proposals that criminalized both the production and access to child pornography. At the time, Justice Minister Anne McLellan emphasized the need for this legislation to protect children from sexual abuse and to keep pace with new technologies, according to Telepolis.

The debate over reformed legislation to combat sexual assault remains extremely relevant, as new cases continue to come to light that highlight the weaknesses in the legal system. As Chagnon appeals his sentence, it remains to be seen how the case will play out and what lessons society can learn from this tragic story.