Nearly three dozen women filed lawsuits Tuesday against Cedars-Sinai and one of its former doctors alleging decades of alleged sexual misconduct.
“The two things all patients have in common are the fact that they were exposed to a known serial sexual predator by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center – and the fact that they are all women who simply sought medical care for themselves and their unborn children ” said attorney Anthony T. DiPietro.
The lawsuit filed on behalf of 35 former patients outlines claims that gynecologist Barry J. Brock sexually exploited and abused women while they were receiving care. The attorneys alleged that the center knew of the alleged abuse but allowed him to continue practicing medicine for decades.
“But instead of protecting his patients, all Cedars did was lie, gaslight and help cover up Brock’s crimes – while exposing countless numbers of unsuspecting patients to a known serial sexual predator,” DiPietro said. “Cedars-Sinai must be held accountable for enabling and covering up Brock’s abuse.”
The hospital suspended Brock earlier this year after several complaints from patients. The company banned him from practicing medicine at the center and reported the complaints to the California Medical Board. Although the hospital suspended him, DiPietro claims Brock contacted former patients and told them he was retiring.
Gerry Boughan/Getty Images
“The type of conduct alleged about Dr. Barry Brock is inconsistent with Cedars-Sinai’s core values and the trust we work to earn with our patients every day,” a Cedars-Sinai spokesperson said. “We recognize that the legal process must now take its course, and we remain committed to Cedars-Sinai’s sacred healing mission and serving our community.”
Brock’s office had no explanation when KCAL News contacted Oct. 8.
