Pedro Florentino González Hernández faced allegations of abusing 32 patients at the Goya 2 health center in Zaragoza. The trial opened with the aim of reaching an agreement to avoid prison and spare the victims from recounting their experiences, but discussions failed to yield a resolution, and both sides proceeded with the case. Journalists reported tense moments during a day when access to the hearing room was limited due to pandemic-related restrictions.
One participant, who attempted suicide following the distress of the events, drew attention to the seriousness of the conduct. The claim described back pain as a trigger for inappropriate touching, and testimonies included remarks from the defendant’s lawyer Miguel Guillén about the nature of the interactions during medical consultations as the prosecution presented its case.
During the proceedings a victim described an initial breast examination that caused distress, noting how the doctor asked questions about family history while she wore a disguise to protect her identity. The witness explained that she was left feeling exposed and vulnerable in the same room where she previously trusted the physician. She recalled a moment when a test was requested and the doctor reportedly commented on her body in a way that left her unsettled and uncertain about the care she received.
“I spent six months without sleep”
Another survivor testified before the 3rd High Criminal Court of Zaragoza, recounting that she sought help amid relationship strain and a desire for psychological support. She described the doctor making inappropriate comments and touching her as she left the interview, quoting remarks that questioned her autonomy. The witness noted that she felt ignored by staff in the office, with some colleagues failing to provide the needed support when she raised concerns.
Efforts by a pharmacist who collaborated with the Family and Women’s Unit (UFAM) of the Aragon Police to report the behavior were acknowledged, and the witness questioned whether women’s voices were being heard at all. The defense team for González Hernández acknowledged the ongoing investigations and the impact on the victims and their families.
The doctor was taken into custody in May of the previous year after multiple women came forward to report experiences they described as unnecessary touching and inappropriate language, including terms of endearment used during professional encounters. The reviews conducted by authorities subsequently revealed a broader pattern of alleged misconduct affecting a substantial number of patients, with 32 women presenting as victims.
The prosecution initially proposed a combined sentence of six decades in prison. Following the defendant’s confession and financial settlements offered to some victims, a modification to the sentencing plan was discussed. The defense and prosecution debated whether the penalties should be aligned with the number of completed infractions or if deferred sentencing would be permissible, given the circumstances and any ongoing treatment obligations.
As the proceedings advanced, the parties considered alternatives to incarceration, including educational and rehabilitative options. The witnesses and counsel for the victims asserted that accountability should reflect the severity of the alleged misconduct and emphasized the need for meaningful consequences to prevent future harm. The court heard from the prosecution and defense teams about potential sentences and the prospects for restorative measures, including educational programs that address consent and patient rights.
By the conclusion of the hearing, the retired physician expressed remorse for the hurt caused, affirming that the process and ongoing mental health support were important for healing. The case highlighted the challenges faced by patients who felt unheard and the importance of safeguarding ethical standards in medical practice. The proceedings underscored the necessity for robust patient protections and clear guidelines to ensure appropriate boundaries in clinical settings, with ongoing monitoring by health authorities and law enforcement. The affected individuals and their advocates remain focused on accountability, transparency, and access to ongoing support and justice. [Citation: Prosecution records and court proceedings]