Newark, NJ - Francis Rienzo Suspended from Practicing Medicine Following Sexual Misconduct with a Patient

Medical Director Suspended for Sexual Conduct with Patient

According to the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, 60-year-old Francis Rienzo has been suspended amid accusations he had inappropriate sexual contact with a patient. Rienzo has his own practice located at 2164 NJ-35, Sea Girt, NJ 08750.

Rienzo is a Medical Director and Addiction Specialist who works with a list of medical facilities such as:

• Comprehensive Treatment Center in Cliffwood
• Endeavor House in North Kearney
• Advanced Health and Education Addiction Treatment Center
• Clearwater Behavioral Health in Eatontown
• Sunrise Detox in Cherry Hill, Stirling, and Toms River 
• Jersey Shore Addiction Services
• Hackensack Meridian Health

This suspension follows a comprehensive review of over 700,000 New Jersey licensees, including physicians and home health aides. Since April of 2021, the Office of Attorney General has been looking into sexual abuse and misconduct by medical professionals to improve how sexual misconduct is handled. 

According to the report, Rienzo admitted to sexual misconduct with one patient, in addition to prescribing her addictive medications. The prescriptions were given without performing the necessary examinations, and he failed to maintain medical patient records. The patient was being seen for substance abuse at the time of the misconduct. 

Rienzo'a three year suspension, that includes one year of probation, goes into effect on December 17, 2021. He is not permitted to treat any patients for the first two years. If his license is reinstated he will have to treat female patients under the supervision of an approved chaperone. 

Lawsuits For Sexual Assaults by Medical Professionals

Attorney contributor Brian Kent represents doctor sexual assault victims in civil lawsuits in the state of New Jersey. He advocates for assault victims against doctors, hospitals, and medical or addiction facilities. Recently Brian discussed the legal recourse available for assault victims. 

"Many patients see doctors as confidants with whom they trust their most personal medical concerns. They assume they will receive compassionate care in addition to the medical professional's competent skills. However, what is not expected is that some doctors abuse this position of trust to satisfy their predatory desires."

"Sadly, this has become a harsh reality across the country. Fortunately, this misconduct is not without recourse. There are laws that regulate medical professionals restricting such sexual conduct against patients. Victims of sexual misconduct and sexual assault at the hands of doctors and other medical professionals have legal recourse based on negligence."

"If a doctor commits a heinous act of sexual misconduct, they can be penalized directly by licensing boards within their state. It is possible they could lose their license, preventing them from practicing medicine. Doctors may also end up in jail or prison for their criminal actions. Additionally, the medical professional along with the medical facility could be held liable in a civil action."

"Victims sexually assaulted by a medical professional or doctor may have grounds to sue both the doctor and the facility. It is highly advised to explore these legal options with an experienced doctor sexual abuse lawyer. They will analyze the details and help determine the best legal options. Financial compensation may even be available for these victims." 

Sources:

New Jersey OAG