Managers of Montreal youth detention centre fired following sex scandal
Posted February 6, 2025 9:50 am.
Two managers in charge of the Cité-des-Prairies youth rehabilitation centre (CDP) on Montreal’s east end have been fired, following a sex scandal at the youth detention centre.
The CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, overseeing the institution, confirmed that the two who had been suspended when the allegations came to light are no longer employed.
The fallout began after an internal investigation was launched by La Presse that revealed cases of sexual abuse and misconduct at the centre in Oct.
Assunta Gallo, the director of youth protection at the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, confirmed that at least one full-blown relationship took place between an employee and a young person, resulting in a pregnancy. There have been other situations of sexual abuse and misconduct.
Montreal police (SPVM) are conducting a parallel investigation, with criminal charges being a possibility.
“Out of respect for these people, all information relating to this process remains confidential,” the CIUSSS told CityNews in a statement.
An interim management structure was put in place to “ensure the continuity of operations and the smooth running of activities at CDP.”
“Our objectives remain the same: to provide a safe, quality living environment for young people and a healthy, supportive work environment for all our employees,” the CIUSSS said.
An investigatory report released in Dec. highlighted a climate of mistrust resulting in a code of silence among employees. Some staff members fear reprisals if they report bad behaviour they witness.
The report makes 40 recommendations to address a number of issues related to the training of educators and to ensure the security of the youth and staff.
