Former Catholic priest who abused children in Nunavut sentenced to 6 years in prison


WARNING: This article contains details of the sexual abuse of children and can affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone affected by him.

A former Catholic priest convicted of sexually abusing children in Nunavut has been sentenced to six years in prison.

Eric Dejaeger, 77, declared himself guilty of seven positions to sexually abuse children in Igloolik between 1978 and 1982.

The children who leave abused, who are now medium age, had between the ages of four and nine years.

Judge Faiyaz Alibhai read the details of each position in the Court on Thursday morning, describing the abuse he leaves inflicted six girls and a boy.

“He destroyed his childhood, hurt his relations with his families and ruined his relationship with his church,” said Alibhai.

The lawyers of the crown and defense had jointly proposed a six -year sentence to leave, which Alibhai accepted.

He also pointed out that Dejaeger was between 31 and 35 years old at that time and “was fully aware” of his actions.

Alibhai described him as “a calculated predator.”

He also said that Dejeeger’s guilty statement was a remorse signal.

“He has saved the victims of testifying and being interrogated, which he would have added to his trauma.”

The victims packed the courtroom while the judge read their decision.

Dejaeger also spoke before being sentenced.

“First, I would like to apologize for the wrong things I have done,” he said.

He also said that he is a “changed person” and that he has not repeatedly repeated himself in Nunavut.

It is the fifth time that he leaves has been sentenced for sexually abusing children, Alibhai said.

In 2015, a court found Dejaeger guilty of 32 positions of child sexual abuse during his time as a priest in Igloolik and sentenced him to 19 years in prison. Later that year, he was also sentenced to five years for sexually abusing children in Edmonton in the 1970s. He was released on probation in 2022.

Alibhai imposed several conditions, including that leaves must be registered in the registry of sexual criminals and cannot attend a public park, swimming area, playground or community center where people under 16 are present.


For any person who has been sexually attacked, there is support available through local support lines and services through the Finish the database of the Canada Violence Association. If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, call 911.

If you or someone you know in Nunavut you are fighting, the following resources can help:

  • Kamatsiaqtut Nunavut Help Line (available 24 hours a day): 979-3333 in IQaluit, or 1-800-265-3333
  • Conversation healing advice program: 1-888-648-0070
  • Employee Assistance Program/Family Government: 1-800-663-1142
  • Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit (Hug Life Council): 1-866-804-2782
  • Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
  • Victim Services: 1-866-456-5216



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