Dr. William Moore Thompson IV, once a prominent medical doctor in Orange County, California, now faces numerous lawsuits for allegedly sexually abusing several male patients during medical examinations.
These lawsuits have brought to light a disturbing pattern of abuse spanning several years. If you or a loved one have been impacted, contact us today to explore your legal options.
Background of Dr. William Moore Thompson IV
Dr. William Moore Thompson IV earned his medical degree from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara Med. School in 2000. He practiced as an infectious disease specialist in Newport Beach, CA, and was well-regarded for his focus on treating the LGBTQ community.
Over the years, Dr. Thompson built a reputation for providing primary care to many patients and treating infectious diseases, including HIV. He was affiliated with Hoag Hospital Newport Beach, where he served for decades, solidifying his standing in the medical community.
Allegations of Sexual Abuse Against Dr. Thompson
The allegations against Dr. Thompson began to surface in early 2023. Former patients started coming forward with complaints of inappropriate sexual touching during medical exams. The Newport Beach Police Department and the California Department of Consumer Affairs launched investigations in response to these allegations.
By September 2023, the investigations culminated in Dr. Thompson’s arrest. He was charged with sexually assaulting nine male patients between 2016 and 2020, leading to the suspension of his medical license.
The complaints revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse. Dr. William Thompson IV allegedly performed unnecessary and excessively frequent prostate exams on his male patients, often described as “overly aggressive.” Under the guise of medical necessity, these exams involved unwarranted sexual touching.
In some cases, victims reported that after completing the prostate exam, Dr. Thompson would demonstrate his arousal to the patient, further compounding the emotional trauma. Additionally, there were reports of forcible oral copulation, adding to the severity of the abuse.
Dr. William Thompson Sex Abuse Lawsuits
In January 2024, 73 former patients joined together to file a civil lawsuit against Dr. Thompson and Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Orange County Superior Court. This lawsuit marks a significant step in seeking justice for the victims. The plaintiffs allege Dr. Thompson’s actions caused them severe emotional distress and psychological harm.
Is Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian Liable?
The lawsuit also seeks to hold Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian liable. The plaintiffs claim the hospital knew or should have known about Dr. Thompson’s conduct.
They argue that numerous red flags should have alerted the hospital to Dr. Thompson’s inappropriate behavior. According to the plaintiffs, the hospital’s failure to act on these warning signs constitutes negligence.
Civil Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse in California
In California, victims of sexual abuse have the right to file civil lawsuits for financial compensation, regardless of whether criminal charges have been filed. This legal avenue allows victims to seek personal justice and monetary compensation for the harm they have suffered.
Civil lawsuits differ from criminal proceedings in giving victims more control over the legal process and the ability to influence the outcome directly.
Pursuing a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows victims to hold the perpetrator accountable for their actions. Second, it provides a means for victims to obtain financial compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, and other damages resulting from the abuse.
Finally, civil lawsuits can serve as a powerful deterrent, sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that institutions must take appropriate measures to protect patients.
Identifying Sexual Abuse by a Doctor
Recognizing sexual abuse by a medical professional can be challenging. Medical examinations often involve intimate contact, making distinguishing between necessary medical procedures and inappropriate behavior difficult. However, there are key indicators that can help identify sexual abuse.
Sexual abuse by a medical professional typically involves unwarranted sexual touching that lacks a valid medical purpose. This includes any form of touching done for the person’s own sexual gratification rather than the patient’s health.
Patients should be aware of any behavior that feels uncomfortable, invasive, or excessive, especially if the doctor provides vague or insufficient explanations for the examination. Trusting one’s instincts and seeking a second opinion if something feels wrong is crucial.
Estimated Settlement Value of Dr. Thompson Sex Abuse Lawsuits
Sexual abuse lawsuits against doctors generally result in significant settlement amounts. The estimated individual settlement value for the lawsuits against Dr. Thompson ranges between $600,000 and $1,500,000. This range reflects the severe emotional and psychological harm inflicted on the victims.
Several factors can influence the settlement value of these cases. One major factor is Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian’s potential negligence.
If the plaintiffs demonstrate that the hospital knew or had reason to know about Dr. Thompson’s inappropriate behavior and failed to take action, the settlement amount could increase significantly.
Hospitals will likely settle for higher amounts to avoid negative publicity and the potential for significant damages awarded in a trial.
Contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers for Assistance
If you are a victim of Dr. Thompson’s abuse, it is important to come forward and seek legal assistance. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is committed to helping victims hold Dr. Thompson accountable for his actions. Our sexual abuse lawyers are experienced in handling sexual abuse cases and provide compassionate and confidential support throughout the legal process.
To discuss your case and explore your legal options, call us at 888-424-5757 or fill out our online contact form. We are here to help you seek justice and obtain the compensation you deserve.
The sexual abuse allegations against Dr. William Thompson highlight a grave breach of trust in the medical profession. Seeking justice through civil litigation is crucial for the victims’ healing process and for holding perpetrators accountable.
Our doctor sexual assault lawyers offer the support and expertise needed to navigate this challenging journey. If you have been affected, do not hesitate to reach out and explore your legal options. Justice and compensation are within your reach.
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