A doctor charged with raping a patient is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing, according to court records. The case, which has drawn local attention, involves allegations that the physician assaulted a patient during a medical visit.
The preliminary hearing, set for a date in the coming weeks, will determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. The doctor, whose name has been withheld to protect the alleged victim's privacy, has not yet entered a plea.
Legal experts say that if the case goes to trial, it could take months to resolve. The doctor's medical license has been suspended pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings, according to state medical board records.
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. The alleged victim is being supported by advocacy groups.
