Fertility doctor Darius A. Paduch accused of assaulting men and boys at New York hospitals.
Dr. Darius A. Paduch, a former fertility specialist and urologist, has been sentenced to life in prison for sexually abusing seven patients, including minors, over a span of 15 years. The abuse took place at two prestigious hospitals in New York City, where Dr. Paduch used his position to prey on vulnerable patients seeking treatment for sensitive medical issues. He was convicted on multiple counts of inducing minors to engage in unlawful sexual activity and enticing individuals to travel for the same purpose.
The sentencing was handed down by Judge Ronnie Abrams in federal court in Manhattan after a two-week trial that concluded with Dr. Paduch being found guilty. Despite maintaining his innocence throughout the proceedings, he was arrested in April and has since been prohibited from practicing in New York. His lawyer, Michael Baldassare, expressed confidence in Dr. Paduch’s eventual vindication.
Dr. Paduch, who previously specialized in treating patients with a genetic condition, worked at prominent hospitals such as NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill-Cornell Medical Center, and Northwell Health. Prosecutors alleged that he manipulated his victims into believing that the sexual abuse he inflicted on them was medically necessary, when in reality, it was not. The abuse often took place during follow-up appointments, where Dr. Paduch instructed patients to engage in inappropriate behavior while in his care.
During the trial, 11 victims testified about the abuse they endured at the hands of Dr. Paduch, with many more submitting impact statements prior to his sentencing. Additionally, 140 former patients have filed civil suits against him, seeking justice for the harm they suffered. The survivors have also taken legal action against the hospitals where Dr. Paduch worked under the Adult Survivors Act, which allowed adult victims of abuse to file claims beyond the statute of limitations during a designated window between 2022 and 2023.
Mallory Allen, a lawyer representing the survivors in the civil suits, emphasized the importance of holding perpetrators of sexual abuse accountable and ensuring that survivors receive justice. While acknowledging that no sentence can fully erase the pain and suffering experienced by the victims, she stated that the sentencing marks a significant step towards closure for those affected by Dr. Paduch’s actions.
In conclusion, the case of Dr. Darius A. Paduch serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding patients from exploitation and abuse within the medical profession. The legal proceedings against him highlight the need for accountability and justice in cases of sexual misconduct, particularly when vulnerable individuals, including minors, are targeted. The sentencing of Dr. Paduch sends a clear message that such heinous acts will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.
Source: The NY Times
