A former UCLA physician faces two charges of sexual battery and one charge of sexual exploitation of a patient after allegations of sexual misconduct from two female patients that were treated by the doctor in 2017 and 2018.
The obstetrician-gynecologist retired from the university last year after 30 years, following an investigation into these claims. The university reported him to the Medical Board of California and law enforcement and removed him from clinical practice. The doctor has plead not guilty and will soon appear in court for arraignment.
According to California Penal Code Sec. 234.4, touching someone intimately against their will for sexual purposes is illegal and could result in misdemeanor or felony charges. A misdemeanor sexual battery charge could result in up to 6 months in jail and up to $2,000 in fines. However, in more extreme circumstances (e.g. if the victim was unlawfully restrained), you could face a felony and 2,3, or 4 years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines.
Proving sexual battery requires prosecutors to establish that the alleged victim was touched in intimate areas while restrained and the touching was against the alleged victim’s will. The prosecutor must also show that the alleged perpetrator touched the alleged victim for sexual gratification, arousal or abuse purposes.
Defending against charges stemming from violent crimes can be challenging, but a skilled criminal defense attorney may be able to come up with a solid defense strategy to support you in court. For more information, discuss the specifics of your case with an attorney as soon as possible.
