Most women would prefer to do a multitude of things rather than go to the gynecologist, but periodic check-ups are necessary to ensure good health. Finding a gynecologist with whom you are comfortable is the best way to make these visits at least slightly more tolerable. Fortunately, the majority of gynecologists in the United States have the best interests of their patients in mind at all times. But there are exceptions. Case in point—52 women have come forward alleging sexual abuse at the hands of former University of Southern California (USC) staff gynecologist, Dr. George Tyndall.
According to LAPD reports, Tyndall, now 72, abused patients—most of them USC students—for a 26-year period…basically his entire career. Despite numerous complaints and accusations during that time, Tyndall remained employed at USC until a 2016 incident, after which he was asked to resign, and given a severance package.
According to the abuse allegations, Tyndall groped women’s breasts, and penetrated their vaginas and anuses for “no legitimate medical purpose,” other than “to satisfy his own prurient sexual desires.” He also made lewd remarks about his patients’ sex lives and bodies. A MA sexual abuse victims attorney can help you protect your rights if you’ve been sexually harassed, raped, or assaulted.
Position of Power
One of those patients, now a nurse practitioner, said that Tyndall used his position of power to take advantage of his patients. He knew that certain actions could be perceived as medically necessary, and he used that knowledge to exploit women.
At a recent press conference, LAPD officials encouraged Tyndall’s victims to come forward to the authorities. “We are empathetic and ready to listen,” said Assistant Chief Beatrice Girmala.
“In mid-May, news broke of allegations brought forth by faculty and students within the University of Southern California against Dr. George Tyndall — a gynecologist there at USC whose behaviors and practices appear to go beyond the norms of the medical profession and gynecological examinations,” said Girmala. “As the LAPD works with the University of Southern California, its board, staff, faculty, and very importantly, student community — both past and present — we wanted to personally outreach to those who may have been impacted and believe they may have been the victim of criminal conduct by Dr. Tyndall.”
Was USC Negligent?
In addition to the criminal investigation into Tyndall’s actions, numerous lawsuits have been filed against USC claiming that the university failed to respond to dozens of complaints made over a period of more than two decades. The lawsuits allege that USC allowed Tyndall to have “unfettered sexual access to the young female USC students in his care.” His abuse was overlooked by USC staff until 2016, when a nurse reported Tyndall to the school’s rape crisis center.
USC President Resigns Amidst Controversy
The lawsuits against USC, which allege intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligence, and accusations that the school’s leadership did nothing to protect Tyndall’s victims, contributed to the resignation of USC President C.L. Max Nikias, who stepped down at the end of May. If you have been the victim of sexual abuse, a Boston injury lawyer can help you determine how to proceed.
The Tyndall case is just another in a slew of sexual abuse cases involving schools. From private schools across New England, to Larry Nassar, the Michigan State University doctor who sexually abused hundreds of young patients, a light is shining on sexual abuse, assault, and harassment, and the overarching message is that it’s not going to be overlooked anymore.
Altman & Altman, LLP—Boston’s Premier Sexual Assault Victims Law Firm
If you have been sexually abused or assaulted, the skilled legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. We have been protecting the rights of victims for more than 50 years. Our compassionate, knowledgeable attorneys will ensure that fully understand your rights and options before moving forward, and we will be by your side throughout the entire process. Don’t go through this difficult time alone. We can help. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.