A former practicing doctor from Birmingham has made a court appearance today, facing a total of 45 sexual offence charges. Nathaniel John Spencer, aged 38 and residing in Quinton, appeared at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre in Newcastle-under-Lyme on Tuesday, January 20.
Details of the Charges
Staffordshire Police have confirmed that the charges relate to 38 victims, comprising 22 children and 16 adults. The alleged offences are said to have occurred between 2017 and 2021. The specific charges include 15 counts of sexual assault and 17 counts of assault by penetration.
Additionally, Spencer faces nine counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, three counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration, and one count of attempted assault by penetration. This follows a complex investigation by the police's Public Protection Unit into sexual offences at two hospitals.
Hospital Connections and Employment History
The investigation focused on incidents at the Royal Stoke University Hospital in Stoke-on-Trent and Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley. Spencer previously worked at the University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM) NHS Trust from August 2017 to August 2020, serving as a resident doctor, formerly known as a junior doctor.
He was then employed as a resident doctor on a placement at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust from August 2020 to April 2021. His employment history spans key periods during which the alleged offences are said to have taken place.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Spencer is next scheduled to appear at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on February 20 for further proceedings. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address serious sexual offences within healthcare settings.
The charges underscore the gravity of the allegations, with multiple victims involved over a four-year period. The police investigation has been thorough, involving detailed scrutiny of hospital records and witness statements.
