Yuma, AZ – In a shocking turn of events, Edsel Sandoval, a prominent medical doctor practicing in Yuma, has found himself embroiled in a growing scandal. Initially facing seven counts of sexual abuse and sexual assault from three women, Sandoval has now been hit with additional charges from eight new women who were once his patients at Sunset Health or Yuma Regional Medical Center.
More Patients Accuse AZ Doctor of Sexual Abuse
According to Lori Franklin, a spokesperson for the Yuma Police Department, the number of alleged victims has risen to eleven, with Sandoval now facing a staggering 21 counts. “There’s now eleven victims and 21 counts that Sandoval is facing,” Franklin stated.
Alleged Doctor Sexual Abuse Spanning Over a Year
Court documents reveal a disturbing pattern of alleged abuse spanning from April 2022 to March of last year. The indictment alleges that Sandoval intentionally and knowingly engaged in sexual contact, sexual intercourse, or oral sexual conduct without the consent of the victims, who range in age from 20 to 43 years old.
Doctor Sandoval Arrested at Sunset Health Clinic
Sandoval’s arrest took place in February 2024 at Sunset Health, a medical clinic in Yuma where he had been practicing medicine for the past five months. Prior to his employment at Sunset Health, Sandoval worked at the Yuma Regional Medical Center, where he was recognized as a healthcare hero in a social media post from a year ago.
Call for Potential Victims to Come Forward
Acknowledging the possibility of additional victims, Franklin urged any survivors to come forward. “One thing they have in common is that they are all women, all the victims are female. There are all age ranges from the time that they were victims from 18 to 65 years old. If you think you’re a victim of something, call us and talk to us about it,” she said.
Medical License Suspended, Court Appearance Scheduled
As the investigation continues, Sandoval’s medical license has been suspended. He is scheduled to appear in court again in June, where he will face the mounting charges against him.
The Yuma community remains shaken by these allegations, and authorities are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served.
Holding Abusers Accountable: Legal Avenues for Doctor Sexual Abuse Survivors
The harrowing allegations against Dr. Edsel Sandoval have sent shockwaves through the Yuma community, leaving many questioning the legal rights and options available to survivors of doctor sexual abuse. To navigate this complex landscape, we turned to Kevin Biniazan, Esq., an experienced Arizona doctor sex abuse lawyer, for a candid discussion on the path forward for those who have endured such traumatic experiences.
Attorney Laurence Banville: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Biniazan. Can you explain the legal recourse available to patients who have been sexually abused by their doctor?
Attorney Kevin Biniazan: Absolutely. Patients who have been sexually abused by their doctor have the right to pursue civil legal action against the perpetrator and any other parties whose negligence contributed to the abuse. This can include filing a lawsuit for damages related to the physical, emotional, and psychological harm suffered.
Banville: What types of damages can be sought in such cases?
Biniazan: Potential damages can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages. The goal is to hold the abuser and any negligent parties accountable while providing financial support to aid in the survivor’s recovery.
Banville: Beyond the individual doctor, who else could be held liable in these situations?
Biniazan: Hospitals, clinics, or medical facilities that employed the abusive doctor may be held liable if they failed to properly vet the doctor’s background, ignored warning signs, or did not have adequate safeguards in place to protect patients. Additionally, if the abuse was reported and the facility failed to take appropriate action, they could be found negligent.
Banville: What advice would you give to individuals who may have been victimized by their doctor?
Biniazan: My advice is to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney who specializes in doctor sexual abuse cases. These cases can be complex, and having an advocate who understands the nuances of the law and can navigate the legal system is invaluable. It’s also important to know that there are resources available to support survivors throughout the process.
Banville: Thank you, Mr. Biniazan, for shedding light on this important issue and providing guidance for those seeking justice.
Sexual Abuse Survivors Find Your Voice, Seek Justice
If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse by a doctor, know that you are not alone. The road to healing and holding perpetrators accountable can be daunting, but resources are available. We encourage any survivors to come forward and explore their legal options. Our firm offers free, confidential consultations to discuss your case and help you understand your rights. Together, we can break the cycle of abuse and ensure that those responsible face the consequences of their actions.
Sources:
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
