A former South Dakota pediatrician who treated Native American children on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation now faces multiple charges of sexual abuse. Since 1995, the former doctor groomed, isolated and abused his male patients.
Health Care Provider Abuse
Pediatricians and other healthcare providers are entrusted with the responsibility to improve the health and well-being of their patients. This is not happening as often as it should. Recently, hundreds of sexually abused children spoke out against a pediatrician noting that he took advantage of their trust.
However, it isn’t just those involved in pediatric care. Surveys of physicians and patients revealed that 10% of doctors admit to having sex with their adult patients. Most alarming is 56% of all physicians admit to not receiving any training about provider-patient sexual boundaries. Without proper training, many health care providers cross the line and sexually abuse their patients. This behavior is unacceptable and wrong. It is important to hold a health care provider accountable for any sexual abuse.
Pediatrician Child Abuse
A South Dakota former pediatrician now faces two additional counts of sexual assault of Native American children he treated on the Pine Ridge reservation from 1995 to 2011. This brings the total charges against the former doctor to 12. The first charges came in February with 5 counts of aggravated sexual abuse, one count of sexual abuse and four counts of sexual abuse with a minor.
The abuse began in 1995 against a minor under 12 years old. He abused the child for 3 years. Then, he also abused another minor between 12 and 16 years old from 1998 to 2001. Prosecutors say the doctor groomed potential victims by offering them money, candy, alcohol, video games and trips. When he earned their trust, he would isolate and abuse his patients.
Get Legal Help
Survivors of sexual abuse can file civil suits against perpetrators and other responsible parties, regardless of the outcome or existence of a criminal prosecution. Civil lawsuits can help a survivor seek monetary damages. This compensation can never change the abuse suffered but can help rebuild a life.
When residential care facilities, health care providers, group homes, or hospitals take advantage of you, this is wrong. We will hold these institutions liable.
Plus, a civil suit can deter future abuse. This is why it is important if you or a loved one was the victim of sexual abuse to contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm. We will provide a free consultation and instruct of any avenues available to you for civil litigation.