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KLTV reported that Kenneth Donald Haygood, a 54-year-old doctor from Tyler, Texas, has been arrested on serious allegations of sexually assaulting multiple patients, including a child. The accusations surfaced following his suspension by the Texas Medical Board in 2023 due to complaints of inappropriate conduct. The investigation, initiated by a sergeant with the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) on November 2, 2023, revealed disturbing details about the alleged assaults.
The first reported incident dates back to December 27, 2007, when a woman claimed that Dr. Haygood sexually assaulted her at the age of eight during a medical appointment. Another victim reported an assault on December 5, 2018, during a massage appointment for sciatica issues. Additionally, a third patient stated she was assaulted during an examination and massage in 2017 or 2018. A fourth patient detailed being groomed for sexual assault starting in 2018 and enduring assaults over several visits within three months.
Despite restrictions placed on his medical license in June 2023, prohibiting him from treating female patients, Dr. Haygood continued to see women. This led to a complete suspension of his license in October 2023 after further complaints and investigations revealed his non-compliance with the restrictions.
Dr. Haygood was arrested on February 13, 2024, and is currently detained at the Smith County Jail facing three charges of sexual assault and one charge of aggravated sexual assault of a child. His bond has been set at $3,550,000.
This case underscores the gravity of the allegations against Dr. Haygood and emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations into such misconduct within the medical profession.
In response to the recent arrest of the Tyler doctor, we sat down with Texas sexual abuse lawyer, Marc Lenahan to explore the legal options available to victims of doctor abuse. This discussion provides valuable guidance on navigating civil litigation against responsible parties, offering a comprehensive look at seeking justice for those impacted by doctor misconduct.
Editor Darla Medina (DM): Marc, in cases where victims have been sexually abused by a doctor, what legal recourse do they typically have in pursuing civil action against those responsible?
Marc Lenahan, Esq. (ML): Victims of sexual abuse by doctors often have options to seek justice through civil cases against liable parties. These cases can involve complex legal processes that aim to hold the abusers accountable for their actions and provide compensation to the victims for the harm they have endured.
DM: How can victims navigate the legal system to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are protected in such sensitive cases?
ML: It's crucial for victims to seek legal representation from experienced attorneys who specialize in handling cases of sexual abuse. These attorneys can provide guidance, support, and advocacy throughout the legal proceedings, ensuring that the victims' rights are upheld and that they have a voice in seeking justice for the harm inflicted upon them.
DM: What advice would you give to victims who are considering taking legal action against their abusers or the institutions that enabled the abuse?
ML: Victims should know that they are not alone in their pursuit of justice. By consulting with knowledgeable attorneys who understand the complexities of these cases, victims can explore their legal options, understand the potential outcomes of pursuing civil action, and make informed decisions about how to proceed in holding accountable those responsible for their suffering.
DM: Thank you, Marc, for elaborating on this important issue and providing valuable insights into how victims of doctor abuse can seek recourse through civil litigation.
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