A nonagenarian residing in Ottawa, 97-year-old Francoise Seguin, finds herself at the centre of a legal storm, as she faces accusations related to sexual assault. These allegations are rooted in incidents believed to have taken place during the 1960s and 70s within the walls of both residential and day schools in northern Ontario.
It was an individual’s grievance, lodged in late 2022, that triggered the initiation of an investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). The grave acts, as alleged, were purportedly committed in Fort Albany, Moosonee, and a detention center in Sudbury.
In response to these serious accusations, the crime unit of James Bay OPP formally charged Seguin on October 11. The charges held against her include three counts of gross indecency, a criminal act recognized by law until its repeal in 1987. If found guilty of these historical offences, Seguin could face imprisonment for a term of up to five years.
Seguin, formerly a nun and educator, is slated for a court appearance in Moosonee on December 5, according to law enforcement authorities. Bill Dickson, OPP spokesperson, confided to the press via email that the alleged incidents were perpetrated within the premises of “St. Anne’s and Bishop Belleau School”. St. Anne’s residential school enjoyed a notable history, operating in Fort Albany between 1906 and 1976. A shadow, however, is cast over this institution as four former staff members were convicted on charges such as indecent assault and assault causing bodily harm.
While the latest accusations brought against Seguin have yet to be tried in a court of justice, they have already left a significant impact on the community.
Professional organizations across Canada offer resources ready to aid survivors of sexual assault and trauma. Persons feeling their safety is at immediate risk are urged to dial 911. A broader list of sexual assault centers throughout Canada, equipped with information and advocacy facilities along with counselling support, are conveniently listed on ReeseCommunity.com. The website even offers an easy way to locate available resources in specific communities through a simple postal code search. Moreover, helplines, legal services, and centers providing sexual assault kits across numerous Canadian provinces such as Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and more are openly accessible. Resources for various demographics such as the National Residential School Crisis Line, Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline, Trans Lifeline, and Sexual Misconduct Support for Armed Forces members are also just a phone call away.
