After a class-action lawsuit was filed against Halifax dentist Errol Gaum, around 400 people have stepped forward citing misconduct. Gaum has additionally been arrested for assault in 8 separate incidents.

One of the individuals a part of the class action states that when she was 7 years old she endured misconduct and assault at the hands of Gaum. She states that while she had put the incident behind her, when she heard about new allegations, she had to come forward.

In 2020, a father on behalf of his 6-year-old daughter publicly brought forward allegations of misconduct. After doing so, hundreds more individuals recounting similar instances stepped forward as well. While those involved are upset only 8 charges are going forward, they are hoping the criminal charges, along with the class action civil suit, will bring justice to the survivors.

Having 400 individuals signed up as class members is a significant number. Traditionally for class actions in Canada, class members are not signed up until after a settlement has been reached. Therefore, having over 400 already signed up in an action not yet certified shows the magnitude of the allegations.

First reported in globalnews.ca