Woman sues Guy Cloutier for sexual assault
Michelle Charron had filed a complaint for sexual assault against the ex-agent of artists Guy Cloutier in 2017, but the police had not retained it, for lack of evidence.
Michelle Charron, who claims to have been sexually assaulted by ex-artist agent Guy Cloutier in the late 1970s, says she was forced, for lack of money, to sue him in small claims to try to seek justice.
Alleged victim Michelle Charron, 65 today, alleges the former impresario sexually assaulted her in 1979 in a hotel room. She therefore claimed $15,000 in compensation for the damages suffered, in accordance with the rules of the small claims court.
Then 19, Michelle Charron says she dreamed of a career in show business. During the hearing on Tuesday morning at the Montreal courthouse, she told the judge that she had not realized at the time that she was a victim of sexual assault.
It wasn't until years later, while in therapy, that she realized what had happened to her. She told the court that she buried those memories deep inside herself for years.
Ms. Charron told the judge that she had suffered from depression, substance abuse and suicide attempts in connection with the after-effects left by this alleged assault.
It's very trying because we go back to more than 40 years ago. […] He shattered my life completely. I had to make an artistic career. It was extremely difficult for me, even with my relationship, Ms. Charron told reporters after the hearing.
Michelle Charron filed a complaint with the police in 2017, in the wake of the #MeToo movement, but the complaint would not have been upheld for lack of evidence.
Explaining that she did not have enough money to afford the services of a lawyer, Michelle Charron explained to the judge that she had no other option but to turn to small claims court to seek justice.
I hope that other victims, those, especially those who have not not the means… Go to small claims, she declared, urging the victims to demand justice.
Remember that the small claims court allows a civil suit to be person or business up to $15,000. People represent themselves in it.
Ex-producer Guy Cloutier leaving the Montreal courthouse, November 17, 2004 , when he had just pleaded guilty to five counts related to crimes of a sexual nature. (File photo)
Guy Cloutier, for his part, did not attend the hearing. A sworn statement submitted to the Court served as testimony. Michelle Charron, who is acting as plaintiff in this case, had nevertheless signed a requirement that he be present during the hearing, but the information may not have been transmitted. in time to Guy Cloutier.
The judge also did not authorize the publication in the media of the content of Guy Cloutier's statement, even if this information is of x27; public order.
The judge took the case under advisement. A judgment is expected in this case in the coming months.
Recall that the former artists' agent and producer had been sentenced to 42 months in prison in December 2004 for sexually assaulting singer Nathalie Simard, especially when she was a minor. He had pleaded guilty to several counts brought against him.
With information from Jacaudrey Charbonneau
