There are a variety of different treatments a person can seek when experiencing some sort of physical ailment. Of all of the treatments available, many people argue for the various benefits of seeing a chiropractor. Treatment from a chiropractor can, they claim, reduce back pain or headaches, for example. However, one woman in Illinois claims that her chiropractor crossed a line during a treatment session. The doctor must now mount a felony defense after charges were filed against him.
The 22-year-old woman was apparently a patient of the 38-year-old man. After an early June session, she contacted local police, claiming that the man had behaved in an inappropriate sexual manner toward her. Over the course of the next few days, authorities conducted an investigation into her claims.
Unfortunately, the man has now been charged with three different felonies as a result of the woman’s allegations. Additionally, his license has been suspended. If convicted of any of the charges against him, he could permanently lose his license. He turned himself in after learning about the warrant for his arrest and has since been released after paying his bond.
In all cases, including those involving a felony defense, prosecutors must provide sufficient evidence to prove that the individual charged is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Unfortunately, a case such as this sometimes boils down to one person’s word against another. If Illinois prosecutors cannot meet the high burden of proof required, he must be found not guilty. The doctor in this case has not previously been a recipient of disciplinary action since earning his license, a factor that may weigh in his favor as this case proceeds through the criminal justice system.
Source: Chicago Sun-Times, “Chiropractor accused of sexual assault of patient; license suspended”, Karen Berkowitz, June 24, 2014