Another Major University Held Accountable for Employing a Predator Doctor
The University of California is yet another of many universities settling six-figure settlements for sexual assault and harassment. The university has awarded a settlement of 2 million dollars to 203 women who have allegedly been sexually assaulted by a doctor the university employed from 1983 to 2018.
This settlement is not the first awarded for alleged sexual assault, back in November 2020 another $73 million was reached for over 5,000 patients of the doctor. Dr. James Heaps served various roles for the university over the course of his 25-year career, and the allegations have followed for the entirety of those years.
Heaps is being tired not only in civil litigation, but currently faces 21 felony counts of sexual abuse. Although he maintains his “not guilty” plea, the continued civil settlements paint a bleak picture for the alleged predator.
Holding Medical Professionals Accountable
Medical professionals are bound by hypocritic oath and duty to do no harm, but occasionally some abuse their power and trust with patients. When this happens, it is up to a State medical board to hold the medical professional accountable, by suspending or even terminating licenses to practice medicine. There are multiple ways to report a medical professional if you believe you have been abused, like, reporting them to the local law enforcement, contacting the hospital or facility where the doctor is employed, or even contact an attorney to help and advise you further.
Contact an Attorney to Take Legal Action
Our firm investigates cases of sexual assault and abuse, including ones that may involve a medical professional. While criminal prosecution and state licensing boards can hand down punishment to the medical professional, civil litigation provides an opportunity for victims to hold their predators accountable.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault or sexual abuse, please contact our office today.
