Justice for Sexual Abuse Victims of Darius Paduch

Sexual abuse by medical professionals is a widespread problem that has affected countless patients for decades. According to a 2021 study by the National Institutes of Health, nearly 5% of women and 2% of men have experienced sexual misconduct by health care professionals. Another investigation identified over 2400 U.S. physicians who were sanctioned for sexual misconduct between 1999 and 2016. Unfortunately, many victims do not come forward or report the abuse, and as a result, they are left without the justice and support they deserve. As reported on ABC-TV New York, in May 2024, Dr. Darius Paduch, a prominent urologist in New York City, was convicted in federal court of 11 counts of sexual abuse. The abuse started in 2015 and lasted through 2019 and maybe longer. There were seven victims in the federal case. However, more than 200 other men have come forward claiming that Paduch abused them. Each and every victim of Paduch deserves justice. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse by a Paduch, you have the right to take action. Finding the right legal representation is vital in cases of sexual assault. At Stephen Bilkis & Associates, we understand the sensitive and complex nature of these cases, and we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal support to victims of the sexual abuse of Paduch. Our experienced New York sexual assault lawyers can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal system, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation and learn more about how we can help.

Darius Paduch was a highly respected urologist at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City, with a reputation for providing exceptional care to his patients. However, his career came crashing down when several patients came forward with allegations of sexual abuse during their appointments with him. A urologist diagnoses and treats diseases of the urinary tract and male reproductive system, including kidneys, bladder, prostate, and urethra. Men and boys under Paduch’s care trusted him to help them with sensitive health issues. However, their trust was betrayed by his actions.

The investigation in the accusations of sexual abuse revealed a disturbing pattern of behavior by Paduch, including inappropriate touching, making sexual comments, and engaging in other sexually inappropriate behavior with his patients. These actions were not only unethical but also illegal. The New York State Department of Health conducted a thorough review of the allegations and ultimately charged Paduch with professional misconduct.

The consequences of Paduch's actions were severe. He was fired from his position at Weill Cornell Medicine, and his medical license was suspended pending further disciplinary action. A criminal investigation ensued, resulting in a verdict of guilty on May 15, 2024. See United States v. Paduch, 23-CR-181 (RA) (S.D.N.Y. May. 15, 2024). According to prosecutors, Paduch raped and molested his patients, sodomized them with ungloved fingers and devices, and showed them pornography.

The victims of his abuse were left with the devastating emotional and psychological impact of his actions, which can last a lifetime. While it has undoubtedly provided some satisfaction to his victims that Paduch has lost his license to practice medicine and has been found guilty of sexual assault, with the help of experienced New York sexual assault lawyers, his victims also have the right to seek compensation for the injuries they suffered as a result of Paduch’s criminal actions.

In addition to physical harm that victims of sexual abuse by doctors often suffer, victims suffer from emotional trauma. Many victims struggle with long-term consequences, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Victims of sexual abuse by doctors often don't report it due to fear, shame, disbelief, stigma, and the power imbalance involved. The "power imbalance" refers to the unequal power dynamics between doctors and patients. Doctors hold authority and expertise, which can intimidate patients, making them feel vulnerable and less likely to challenge or report inappropriate behavior. This imbalance can contribute to patients' reluctance to report sexual abuse, fearing they won't be believed or that their concerns will be dismissed. Furthermore, male victims of sexual abuse are less likely to report it than female victims. This can result in abusers like Paduch continuing their behavior and victims being denied the justice they deserve.

Sexual abuse by doctors can cause significant physical, emotional, and financial harm to victims. If you have been sexually abused by a Paduch, it is important to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. Victims of sexual abuse by doctors may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This compensation can help victims cover the costs of medical treatment, therapy, and other expenses related to their abuse. In some cases, victims may also be able to receive compensation for future medical expenses and lost wages if their abuse has caused long-term or permanent harm.

Note that victims may be able to recover compensation from abusive doctors and the medical facilities who employed them even if the doctor was not criminal charged or convicted. Thus, even if you were not one of the seven victims involved in the federal case that resulted in Paduch’s May 2023, you can still bring a civil lawsuit to pursue compensation. The criminal process and the civil process are two distinct legal actions.

As with any lawsuit, victims must be mindful of the statute of limitations. Until recently, generally for bring a civil lawsuit against an sexual abuser, the statute of limitations was three years after the assault. If the victim was under the age of 18, then they had until age 23 to file a civil lawsuit. With the recent enactment of the 2019 Child Victims Act, victims who were under 18 at the time of their assault now have until they turn age 55. Many of Paduch’s victims were minors. In fact, he was found guilty of sex crimes where the victims were minors. For adults who were sexually assaulted after 2019, they have 20 years to file civil claim. To discuss the details of your case and the impact of New York’s statute of limitations, immediately contact an experienced sexual assault attorney in New York.

Sexual abuse by doctors is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for victims. The case of Darius Paduch is just one example of the many doctors who have been accused of sexual abuse. It is important for victims to receive the justice they deserve and for doctors who engage in this behavior to be held accountable for their actions. At Stephen Bilkis & Associates, we are committed to helping victims of sexual abuse navigate the legal system and fight for the justice they deserve. Our experienced sexual assault attorneys serving New York can provide compassionate and effective legal support to help you understand your rights and options, and to seek compensation for the harm that has been done to you. Contact us at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We represent clients in the Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Long Island, and Westchester County.