A physician previously contracted to provide emergency room services at Magnolia Regional Medical Center, located at 101 Hospital Dr, Magnolia, AR 71753, has been arrested and charged with rape, according to Magnolia Report.
Dr. Jeremy Wayne Saul, 44, of London, Arkansas, was taken into custody by the Magnolia Police Department on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. The arrest came after a patient at MRMC reported being raped by the doctor.
Saul was employed by Emergency Staffing Solutions, a Dallas-based company that contracts with the hospital to supply physicians for the Emergency Department. Karen Weido, executive assistant for MRMC, stated that Saul stopped providing services at the hospital on March 29.
Saul made his initial court appearance on May 2, 2024, at the Columbia County Justice and Detention Facility. He was booked on a charge of rape and released on $200,000 bond. No new court date has been set.
In a statement, Weido said the hospital has conducted a "comprehensive re-evaluation" of its physician screening procedures. She noted that Saul was in good standing with the Arkansas State Medical Board and passed all required background checks when he began providing services.
Weido stated that patient safety is the hospital's top priority, and they are currently reviewing additional recommendations to enhance their policies and protocols. The hospital did not provide further details on the alleged incident.
A Facebook post attributed to Saul expressed his commitment to cooperating with the investigation, stating that transparency is vital and that he aims to "resolve this matter in a manner that reinforces confidence in the medical profession."
The case remains under investigation by the Magnolia Police Department. The public awaits the release of the probable cause affidavit, which typically provides more details about the allegations.
Following the disturbing allegations against a physician sexually abused a patient at Magnolia Regional Medical Center, we sat down with Joshua Gillespie, an experienced sexual abuse lawyer from Arkansas. Gillespie shared valuable insights into the legal options available to victims and the importance of uncovering the full scope of abuse when doctors sexually abuse patients.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us to discuss this troubling case. As a lawyer who has handled many sexual assault cases, what options do the victims have in seeking justice when sexually assaulted by a medical professional?
Attorney Joshua Gillespie: It's a deeply disturbing situation when a medical professional violates the trust placed in them. Victims of sexual assault by a doctor have several legal avenues to pursue. They can file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator for the harm caused. Additionally, they may be able to hold the hospital or staffing agency accountable if there were failures in the screening or oversight of this physician.
Medina: That's an important point. Perpetrators in positions of power, like doctors, often have multiple victims. How can the legal system help uncover the full scope of abuse?
Gillespie: You're absolutely right. It's common for predators in positions of authority to target numerous victims. Through the civil litigation process, we can compel the production of records and documents that may reveal other incidents of misconduct. This can be crucial in holding the guilty party and any negligent organizations fully accountable. Victims deserve to know they are not alone and that the system will work to protect their rights.
Medina: That's very helpful insight. Thank you for sharing your expertise on this sensitive matter. It's clear that victims need strong legal advocates to ensure justice is served, especially when powerful institutions may be complicit.
Gillespie: You're welcome. I'm glad I could provide some perspective on the legal options available. My heart goes out to anyone impacted by this type of betrayal of trust. I encourage all victims to come forward and seek the support they need to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Doctor abuse victims and their families can reach out for a free consultation to explore their options and start the process of seeking justice. Our team of compassionate and dedicated attorneys is committed to fighting for the rights of those who have been wronged by those in positions of power.