A renowned figure in the Quebec music industry now risks prison for having repeatedly assaulted a woman in a domestic context. Denis Wolff notably suffocated his victim with a pillow for several seconds to the point of almost making him lose consciousness.
“We really need to denounce violence against women, spouses and intimate partners. We must say no to violence. There’s no need to be afraid – I know it’s difficult. We can trust the justice system,” commented Crown prosecutor M.e Hélène Décarie, in the press scrum.
Little known to the public, Denis Wolff was a well-known artistic director, having made a name for himself within the Audiogram record company. He notably contributed to the success of artists Jean Leloup, Pierre Lapointe, Patrick Watson, Lhasa de Sela, Loco Locass and Bran Van 3000.
The 67-year-old had to resign from his position on the board of directors of the Society of Authors, Composers and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN) when The Press revealed his indictment in April 2021.
Denis Wolff cut short his trial which was to begin Monday at the Montreal courthouse by pleading guilty to four counts, including assault causing injury and assault by choking the victim. A court order protects the identity of the victim, an association with the accused.
In a first episode, Denis Wolff threw his electronic tablet in the woman’s face during an “argument”, causing her a black eye. An “escalation” of violence followed in the following months. The accused increased the insults and physical violence. Among other things, he pushed her onto the bed, then held her wrists.
Two episodes stand out. In an “explosion of violence,” Denis Wolff pushed the victim out of his vehicle, then began to move forward slowly. Another time, in another “outburst of anger,” he punched the woman in the face. She then hit her head against the wall. Injuries which caused significant after-effects.
The worst episode of violence led the victim to denounce her tormentor in 2021. Furious, Denis Wolff started hitting the woman with a slipper. He then took a pillow and suffocated the victim for several seconds. The woman was scared and felt like she was going to lose consciousness.
A pre-sentence report was requested by the parties in order to paint a portrait of the offender for observations on the sentence to be imposed. The lawyers have not opened their game regarding the sentence that will be requested. He faces a prison sentence.
In the press scrum, the Crown prosecutor recalled how important the admission of guilt of an accused was for a victim.
“It brings a lot. It doesn’t erase, obviously. It will help you get back in control, close a chapter and be able to heal from your wounds,” said M.e Décarie.
Me Alexandra Boulanger and Me Pierre Poupart defends the accused.