The law firm of Flaherty McCarthy LLP has commenced a proposed Class Proceeding against Rick Despatie (also known as Rick Watkins) and the Ottawa Catholic School Board.  Despatie has since been convicted and sentenced with respect to various offences.  The proposed Class Proceeding seeks $220 million in damages on behalf of the class members who were assaulted by Despatie. The Statement of Claim alleges that Despatie sexually assaulted class members while he worked as a teacher with the Ottawa Catholic School Board.  As a result, these students have suffered various emotional, physical and psychological harms. The allegations against the defendants have not yet been proven in Court.

A copy of the Statement of Claim can be found HERE.

The parties are presently seeking the appointment of a Case Management Judge who will set a Timetable for the Certification Motion.