A Doctor in Pinoso is Convicted of Sexual Abuse on His Last Working Day
On what was supposed to be his final day as a medical professional, a doctor from Pinoso Health Center faced a grave accusation: he sexually abused a young patient who had sought care as he approached retirement. The case unfolded in the Alicante Provincial Court, where the doctor admitted guilt to the charges. A two-year prison sentence was imposed, but the execution of this sentence may be suspended if the court agrees, provided he avoids any criminal activity for three years.
During the proceedings, prosecutors had asked for a longer punishment of six years in prison and an eight-year prohibition on private practice. Ultimately, the sentence was reduced to two years after both parties reached an agreement with the defendant’s defense team.
Prior to sentencing, the defendant had already made a monetary gesture by entering into a forensic settlement of 10,000 euros to compensate the victim for damages. This payment was higher than the amount requested by the Prosecutor’s Office, a fact noted in the court records. The Second Chamber President read the conviction aloud after the accused doctor admitted his guilt and the facts presented by the victim were corroborated on the stand, with the victim protected by a screen during the proceedings.
The 70-year-old defendant received a two-year prison term for sexual abuse. The court also granted a significant compensation discount, requiring payment of the damages in advance. The sentence includes a four-month disqualification from practicing medicine or any related activity and a three-year prohibition on approaching or contacting the victim in any way, with a distance limit of 200 meters.
The incidents cited by the prosecution occurred at ten in the morning on August 14, 2020, when the young woman visited the doctor at the Pinoso Health Center. She described the doctor’s handling of her medical concerns and alleged improper conduct, including actions during the examination. According to the victim, the doctor engaged in inappropriate contact while the patient was under his care, creating a feeling of shock and distress. The doctor later explained his own perspective on the events and admitted the conduct during the final interview of his professional tenure.
In the courtroom, the doctor and the victim each provided testimony that supported the charges. The case concluded with a verdict of conviction and a sentence that reflects the gravity of the abuse, balanced against the legal framework that allows for suspension of the prison term under certain conditions. This outcome underscores the court’s stance on protecting patients and upholding professional standards in medical practice. (Source: Alicante Provincial Court)