A Newport Beach infectious disease doctor is facing criminal charges after authorities allege he sexually assaulted nine male patients under the guise of medical examinations.
Dr. William Thompson IV, a 56-year-old Huntington Beach resident specializing in LGBTQ healthcare, has been charged with multiple felony counts, including sexual penetration by fraudulent representation of professional purposes, sexual battery by fraud, and forcible oral copulation.
According to a news release by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, six of Thompson’s patients reported that the procedures he performed on them were allegedly unnecessary and constituted sexual assault.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer expressed concern, saying, “Many of Dr. Thompson’s patients relied on him for life-saving care, and he exploited their vulnerabilities for his own sexual gratification. Unfortunately, because of his specialized area of practice, Dr. Thompson put these patients in a situation where they may have felt they had no other choice but to endure sexual abuse in order to receive necessary treatment.”
Following a joint investigation by the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Newport Beach Police Department, Thompson was arrested at his medical practice in Newport Beach on Wednesday. He is also associated with Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian.
In addition to the current charges, Thompson previously admitted to misdemeanor DUI charges after being arrested with a blood alcohol content of .38, well above the legal limit of .08, in April 2021, according to the DA’s office.
If convicted of the new charges, Thompson could face up to 55 years to life in prison. His arraignment is scheduled for November 2, and he is currently out on a $100,000 bond.
It is not known if Thompson has retained legal representation at this time, according to court records.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information or potential victims to contact Newport Beach detectives at 949-644-3682 or submit anonymous tips at 1-800-550-6273.
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