In a stunning development that has rocked Montreal’s business and legal communities, billionaire technology magnate Robert Miller has been declared medically unfit to stand trial on multiple sex-related charges. The decision, delivered Tuesday by Quebec Superior Court Justice Marc-André Blanchard, effectively halts what was anticipated to be one of Canada’s most high-profile criminal cases of the decade.
“The court has no choice but to conclude that the accused is permanently unfit to stand trial,” Justice Blanchard stated in his ruling, citing Miller’s “rapid cognitive decline” and deteriorating health condition. Medical experts testified that the 81-year-old founder of Future Electronics suffers from advanced dementia, rendering him unable to meaningfully participate in legal proceedings or instruct counsel.
Miller, whose fortune is estimated at over $3 billion, faced serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving minors dating back to the 1990s. An extensive Canada News investigation first exposed the allegations in 2023, prompting dozens of women to come forward with claims that Miller had paid them for sexual services when they were teenagers.
The ruling has sparked intense debate across CO24 Politics circles about the intersection of wealth, justice, and accountability. Victims’ advocates expressed profound disappointment, with spokesperson Martine Desjardins telling reporters, “This outcome leaves dozens of alleged victims without their day in court or any sense of resolution. The justice system has failed them.”
Defense attorney Frank Pappas maintained that the medical assessment was thorough and conclusive. “Three independent medical experts confirmed Mr. Miller’s condition makes it impossible for him to participate in his defense. This isn’t about wealth or privilege—it’s about fundamental legal principles regarding fitness to stand trial.”
The prosecution had vigorously contested the fitness assessment, arguing that Miller’s condition was being exaggerated. Crown prosecutor Claude Dallaire noted, “We believe there were periods of lucidity that would have allowed for trial proceedings to move forward.” However, Justice Blanchard determined the evidence of cognitive impairment was “overwhelming and irrefutable.”
Miller’s case has drawn comparisons to other high-profile defendants who have avoided trial due to health concerns, raising questions about whether the wealthy have greater access to medical experts who can effectively shield them from prosecution. CO24 News analysis shows that fitness hearings have increased by 27% in cases involving defendants with significant financial resources.
The fallout extends beyond the courtroom. Future Electronics, once a global powerhouse in electronic component distribution, has seen its market valuation decline by approximately 18% since allegations against Miller first surfaced. CO24 Business analysts report that several major corporate clients have quietly distanced themselves from the company, citing ethical concerns.
Legal experts suggest the ruling likely represents the end of criminal proceedings against Miller, though civil litigation may continue. “While criminal prosecution requires the defendant’s active participation, civil cases have different standards and could potentially proceed,” explained McGill University law professor Catherine McKenzie.
For the alleged victims, many now in their 40s and 50s, the ruling represents a bitter conclusion to their quest for justice. One woman, speaking anonymously, told CO24, “We waited decades to be heard, only to be told that the man who allegedly exploited us is now too ill to face consequences. The system protected him when we were vulnerable teenagers, and it’s protecting him still.”
As this case concludes without trial, we’re left to ponder: When justice is delayed until a defendant becomes medically unfit to stand trial, can we truly say our legal system provides equal protection regardless of wealth, power, or social standing?
