Sexual Assault Survivors Claim UCLA Knew Of Complaints Against Dr. Heaps, And Allowed Him To Practice

In 2019, Dr. James Heaps, a highly regarded UCLA obstetrician-gynecologist and oncologist, was arrested and charged with sexual battery by fraud and sexual exploitation. Within months, hundreds of former patients came forward claiming they were sexually assaulted during one or more of their wellness examinations. On October 20, 2022, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office announced that Dr. Heaps was found guilty and convicted of three counts of sexual battery by fraud and two counts of sexual penetration of an unconscious person. Although the former doctor was acquitted of seven other charges, the jury was unable to reach a unanimous decision on nine other counts. According to his defense lawyers, Dr. Heaps insists that he is innocent and plans to appeal his conviction. Ellen, Melanie, Nicole, and Gaby claim they were physically assaulted by Dr. Heaps during their visits and that the mental trauma will never go away. They and their attorneys, Darren Kavinoky and Jennifer McGrath, join Dr. Phil on Monday’s episode, “White Coat Betrayal,” to share their stories. In the video above, Dr. Phil reviews the timeline of events showing that even though complaints were made against Dr. Heaps, he was allowed to continue to practice. “After UCLA knew, they continued to pack his waiting room full of victims,” says Kavinoky in the video above. On Monday’s episode, hear the women share stories of the horrific abuse they claim they endured. Check local listings to see where you can watch. Statement from UCLA: “UCLA Health is grateful for the patients who came forward. Sexual misconduct of any kind is reprehensible and intolerable. Our overriding priority is providing the highest quality care while ensuring that patients feel safe, protected and respected.” WATCH: Sexual Assault Survivor Says She Contemplated Death By Suicide After She Claims She Was Violated By OB-GYN TELL DR. PHIL YOUR STORY: Are you involved in a story making headlines?