Montreal’s judicial system faced a significant development today as the trial of billionaire Robert Miller, founder of electronics giant Future Electronics, was suspended due to health concerns. Quebec Court Judge Dennis Galiatsatos ruled that Miller, who faces multiple charges related to alleged sexual misconduct with minors, is currently too ill to stand trial.
The 81-year-old Montreal business magnate has been battling serious health issues that have progressively worsened over recent months. According to medical experts who testified during today’s proceedings, Miller’s condition has deteriorated to a point where he cannot meaningfully participate in his own defense.
“This decision underscores the delicate balance our courts must maintain between pursuing justice and recognizing when a defendant’s health truly prevents a fair trial,” noted Catherine Desmarais, a legal analyst with the Montreal Bar Association, who was present for the ruling.
The suspension comes after a thorough medical evaluation conducted by court-appointed specialists. Dr. Jean-Pierre Arsenault, who led the assessment, testified that Miller suffers from multiple age-related conditions that significantly impact his cognitive functions and physical stamina.
“The court has no choice but to suspend proceedings until such time as Mr. Miller’s health might improve sufficiently to allow for a fair trial,” Judge Galiatsatos stated during this morning’s hearing. “The right to be present – mentally as well as physically – during one’s trial is fundamental to our justice system.”
Miller’s legal troubles began in February 2023 following an investigative report by Radio-Canada’s Enquête that alleged he had paid minors for sexual services between 1994 and 2006. The case has since drawn considerable attention across Quebec, particularly in Montreal’s business community where Miller had been a prominent figure for decades.
Crown prosecutor Martine Bérubé expressed disappointment but acknowledged the court’s obligation to ensure fair trial conditions. “While we respect the court’s decision, our thoughts remain with the alleged victims who continue to seek closure through the justice system,” Bérubé told reporters outside the courthouse.
For the alleged victims, some now in their 40s, the suspension represents another delay in their pursuit of justice. Marie-Claude Lacroix, an advocate with Montreal’s Support Centre for Victims of Sexual Assault, emphasized the emotional toll such delays can take.
“These postponements can be devastating for survivors who have already waited years to have their experiences acknowledged in court,” Lacroix explained. “It’s a painful reminder of how our system sometimes struggles to balance competing rights.”
The case has sparked broader conversations about wealth, power, and accountability in Montreal’s elite circles. Miller, whose net worth was estimated at $1.6 billion by Forbes, stepped down from Future Electronics shortly after the allegations became public.
Legal experts suggest this suspension could potentially extend for months or even indefinitely, depending on Miller’s health trajectory. Robert Champagne, a criminal defense attorney not involved in the case, offered perspective on the situation.
“In cases involving elderly defendants with significant health issues, these suspensions sometimes effectively end the prosecution,” Champagne noted. “The court will likely schedule periodic reassessments, but the reality is that health conditions at Mr. Miller’s age rarely improve substantially.”
Community reactions to the suspension have been mixed. Outside the Montreal courthouse, small groups gathered with signs expressing both support for the alleged victims and concerns about the judicial process.
“I’ve been following this case since it broke last year,” said Monique Tremblay, a retired teacher who joined others outside the courthouse. “It’s frustrating to see justice delayed, but I also understand that our system must protect the rights of all parties involved.”
The court has scheduled a status hearing for September to reassess Miller’s condition, though Judge Galiatsatos indicated that Miller’s physicians will provide monthly updates to both the defense and prosecution teams.
As Montreal’s legal community processes this development, the case continues to highlight the challenges our justice system faces when handling complex cases involving aging defendants, serious allegations, and the enduring impact on those seeking resolution through the courts.
