A Quebec Superior Court judge has ruled that Gilbert Rozon, the founder of Just For Laughs, must pay over $880,000 to eight out of the nine women who accused him of sexual assault and misconduct in a civil trial. The women sought nearly $14 million in damages collectively. Testifying between 1980 and 1994, Patricia Tulasne, Lyne Charlebois, Anne-Marie Charette, Annick Charette, Sophie Moreau, Danie Frenette, Guylaine Courcelles, Mary Sicari, and Martine Roy shared their experiences during the trial.
In a detailed 600-page decision, Judge Chantal Tremblay found that all but one of the plaintiffs had substantiated their claims of suffering sexual assaults by Rozon. She dismissed four defamation lawsuits filed by Rozon and emphasized the need for a legal response proportional to the harm inflicted.
The trial included testimonies from multiple witnesses, including seven other women who alleged sexual abuse by Rozon. Despite denying the allegations, Rozon was ordered to compensate the women. The law firm representing the plaintiffs hailed the decision as a victory for survivors of sexual assault, emphasizing the importance of seeking justice through the legal system.
During a news conference, the women expressed relief and solidarity, stating that the ruling was not only a legal triumph but also a collective voice against sexual assault. Judge Tremblay highlighted Rozon’s abuse of power in exploiting his position to victimize individuals, perpetuating harmful myths about assault victims.
The civil trial, stemming from a class-action lawsuit initiated in 2020, marked a significant step in holding Rozon accountable for his actions. Rozon resigned as Just For Laughs president in 2017 following misconduct allegations. While acquitted of criminal charges in the past, Rozon now faces financial consequences for his actions.
Charette, one of the plaintiffs, emphasized the limitations of civil justice and called for better support for victims within the criminal justice system. Rozon’s legal team is considering their options following the ruling, including the possibility of an appeal.