Advertisement

Gordon Stuckless apologizes in Maple Leaf Gardens sex abuse case for harm to victims

Gordon Stuckless arrives at court in Toronto on Tuesday April 22 , 2014.
Gordon Stuckless arrives at court in Toronto on Tuesday April 22 , 2014. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

TORONTO — The man at the heart of the Maple Leaf Gardens sex abuse scandal has apologized in court for the lasting harm he caused his young victims.

Gordon Stuckless was instructed to face away from the handful of victims present in a Toronto courtroom where he read his statement during a sentencing hearing on Tuesday.

READ MORE: Crown seeks 12 years in prison for Gordon Stuckless in sex abuse case

At least one victim closed his eyes as Stuckless expressed shame and remorse for betraying their trust and taking away their childhood.

Breaking news from Canada and around the world sent to your email, as it happens.

Stuckless pleaded guilty in 2014 to 100 charges related to the sexual abuse of 18 boys decades ago.

READ MORE: Gordon Stuckless victims tell of lifelong suffering due to abuse

He was later found guilty of two additional charges of gross indecency linked to two of the 18 victims.

Story continues below advertisement

Prosecutors decided earlier this year not to seek to have him designated a dangerous or long-term offender.

WATCH: Stuckless victims complete impact statements

Click to play video: 'Stuckless victims complete impact statements'
Stuckless victims complete impact statements

Sponsored content

AdChoices