The former medical director of a Virginia hospital that specializes in treating vulnerable children and young adults has been acquitted of sexually abusing two teenage patients during physical exams. Dr. Daniel Davidow, who served as the medical director of the Cumberland Hospital for Children and Adolescents, was found not guilty of two counts of felony indecent liberties and two counts of object sexual penetration by Judge B. Elliot Bondurant.
Davidow's attorney, Craig Cooley, stated that the verdict was based on the evidence and the lack of credibility of the complainants. Cooley emphasized that the accusations had besmirched Davidow's character and reputation, despite his dedication to helping medically complex children.
During the trial, prosecutors alleged that Davidow used physical exams as a pretext to sexually abuse two female patients. However, Davidow and his legal team vehemently denied any inappropriate behavior. Cooley also highlighted that the former patients are pursuing a civil lawsuit seeking significant financial compensation from Davidow and the hospital.
The young women, who were teenagers at the time of the alleged incidents, testified that Davidow had inappropriately touched them during physical exams. The prosecutor described the victims as extremely vulnerable, living without parental care at the residential facility.
Virginia State Police initiated an investigation into the hospital staff in 2017. Davidow is one of several former Cumberland Hospital employees to face legal action in connection with patient care, including a psychotherapist charged with sexual abuse and a behavioral technician sentenced for harming a disabled child.
The acquittal of Dr. Davidow marks a significant development in a case that has raised concerns about patient safety and accountability within the healthcare system.
