A former doctor from Dudley has denied committing 45 sexual offences, including rape and sexual assault, against 17 female patients. The allegations span from 2008 to 2013, during which time the accused worked as a general practitioner in the West Midlands.
Details of the Charges
The 71-year-old defendant, who has not been named for legal reasons, appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Monday. He faces 45 counts, including multiple charges of rape, sexual assault by penetration, and sexual assault. The alleged offences took place at a medical practice in Dudley.
The prosecution alleges that the doctor abused his position of trust to assault vulnerable patients during consultations. The charges involve 17 women, all of whom were patients at the practice at the time.
Court Proceedings
During the hearing, the defendant entered pleas of not guilty to all charges. The judge set a trial date for early next year, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for later this month. The defendant was granted bail under strict conditions, including surrendering his passport and not contacting any of the alleged victims.
According to the Crown Prosecution Service, the case follows a lengthy investigation by West Midlands Police, which began after a complaint was made in 2020. The inquiry uncovered further alleged victims, leading to the comprehensive list of charges.
Impact on Patients and Community
The allegations have shocked the local community in Dudley. A spokesperson for the NHS trust said: "We take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously. Our thoughts are with the patients involved, and we are offering them support through this difficult time." The General Medical Council has also been informed and is monitoring the case.
The trial is expected to last several weeks, with the court hearing evidence from the alleged victims and medical experts. The defendant, who has since retired from medical practice, maintains his innocence.
