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CBS 21 reported they obtained court records exposing a history of inappropriate sexual conduct by a former medical assistant, Eric Tarter Jr. at Penn State Health Medical Group - Colonial Park located at 4230 Crums Mill Rd # 100, Harrisburg, PA 17112. According to officials, Tartar has been charged with several offenses, including Deviate Sexual Intercourse, Indecent Assault, Impersonating a Holder of a Professional License, and more.
The investigation began in October 2023 when the mother of an 18-year-old patient at Penn State Health reported that her son had been sexually assaulted twice by the same person. Following this report, an investigator from the Lower Paxton Police Department met with the practice site manager at the Penn State Health facility.
The manager confirmed that Eric Tartar, Jr. identified as the alleged perpetrator, was no longer employed at the facility. It was revealed that Tartar had worked as a medical assistant but had been terminated in late August 2023 for acting beyond the scope of his practice.
Further investigation uncovered disturbing details about Tartar's actions. In March 2023, the victim, who had recently turned 18, sought medical care at Penn State Health and was attended to by a Certified Routine Nurse Practitioner. However, in April 2023, during a subsequent visit, the victim encountered Tartar, who identified himself as a doctor. Tartar proceeded to ask inappropriate sexual questions, conducted unnecessary tests, and ultimately sexually assaulted the victim, claiming it was a medically necessary procedure.
Shockingly, when the victim returned for a follow-up visit in August 2023, Tartar once again referred to himself as a doctor and assaulted the victim. The victim reported that no other medical staff was present during these encounters.
It was later confirmed that Eric Tartar, Jr. is not a licensed physician, surgeon, or physician assistant. In fact, he does not hold any license issued by the State Board of Medicine.
The case took a more extensive turn when the Lower Paxton Police received a call from the Upper Allen Police, who had also filed charges against Tartar. The Upper Allen Police were contacted by UPMC, reporting a patient's sexual assault by a staff member.
The records confirmed that Eric Tartar, Jr., employed as a medical assistant at UPMC, assaulted a patient during a routine check-up. Tartar presented himself as a different doctor and assaulted the patient despite not being authorized to do so. He was subsequently charged with one count of Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse and one count of sexual assault by the Upper Allen Police.
Tartar began working as a medical assistant at Penn State Health on October 10, 2022, and was terminated on August 31, 2023, prior to the allegations of criminal misconduct. Penn State Health is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
He now faces charges including Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse, two counts of Indecent Assault, Unlawful Restraint, Unauthorized Use of a Computer, and Impersonating a Holder of a Professional or Occupational License.
The shocking nature of these allegations has raised concerns about patient safety and the need for stricter protocols to prevent such incidents in healthcare settings. Authorities are urging anyone with further information or potential victims to come forward and assist in the investigation.
We sat down with Brian Kent, a Pennsylvania-based sexual abuse lawyer, to discuss the legal options available to victims of medical professional abuse. As cases of misconduct continue to emerge, it is crucial to understand the avenues victims can pursue for justice and compensation. Join along to gain valuable insights from Attorney Kent on civil cases against liable parties and the importance of holding those responsible accountable.
Editor Darla Medina (DM): Thank you for being here today, Brian.
Brian Kent, Esq. (BK): Thank you for having me, Darla. It's important to address these issues and provide guidance to those affected.
DM: Absolutely. In light of the recent case where a former medical assistant allegedly posed as a doctor and engaged in inappropriate conduct, what options do victims have when it comes to pursuing civil cases in the event they are assaulted by a medical professional?
BK: Victims of medical professional abuse, such as the victims in this case, may have grounds for a civil lawsuit against multiple parties. Firstly, the individual responsible for the abuse, in this case, the former medical assistant, can be held accountable. Victims can pursue legal action to seek compensation for the physical and emotional harm they have endured.
DM: Are there other parties that victims might be able to hold liable as well?
BK: Absolutely. It's important to investigate whether the medical facility or institution where the abuse occurred can be held responsible. Employers have a duty to properly vet and supervise their employees, especially those working in sensitive positions within the healthcare field. If it's determined that the facility failed to conduct adequate background checks or neglected to address previous complaints or red flags regarding the individual's conduct, they may be held liable.
DM: What steps should victims take if they believe they have a civil case?
BK: It's crucial for victims to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases, particularly those involving medical professionals. An attorney can provide guidance on the specific laws and statutes in their jurisdiction and help victims understand their rights. They can also assist in gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a strong case to pursue justice and compensation.
DM: For victims who may be hesitant to come forward, what message would you like to convey?
BK: I understand the immense courage it takes for victims to step forward and confront the trauma they have experienced. It's important to remember that you are not alone. By speaking out and taking legal action, you not only seek justice for yourself but also protect others from potential harm. Support networks, advocacy groups, and legal professionals are available to provide assistance throughout the process.
DM: Thank you, Brian, for sharing your insights and shedding light on the legal options available to victims in cases like this. It is crucial to empower and support those who have suffered abuse at the hands of individuals who betray their trust.
BK: Thank you, Darla. It's my hope that by raising awareness and providing information, we can help victims navigate the legal system and find some measure of healing and justice.
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