The Texas Medical Board (TMB) has suspended the medical license of a pediatrician due to allegations of possession of child pornography. The allegations resulted in the immediate termination of the physician’s position at a local hospital.
The physician’s home was searched subject to a warrant. The search resulted in the seizure of a laptop and external hard drives that allegedly contain evidence of these crimes. A criminal complaint was filed with the United States District Court Western District of Texas, according to a recent article by a local CBS affiliate.
Suspended license: Analysis
The suspension of the doctor’s medical license is temporary, pending a hearing. This type of hearing generally takes place within ten days of notice to the physician. The physician can then choose to either move forward with the hearing or waive the right to the hearing.
Generally, when the TMB receives a complaint it begins a review. The TMB may contact the complainant and the physician during this initial review. A medical professional contacted by the TMB is wise to take the contact seriously and respond carefully. In this situation, an attorney can provide guidance and help protect your medical license.
Community involvement: Patients voice support
In the case noted above, the pulmonary specialist has maintained his innocence. Many parents have also come out to publicly support the physician. One parent stated that her interactions with the physician were always positive and that he seemed to want the best for her child. Another encouraged everyone to remember that this doctor is innocent until proven guilty.
The outcome of this case will depend on the evidence found during the search. This will determine if the state will pursue criminal charges.