In the wake of Pro Publica’s bombshell investigative report about institutional failures at Columbia University that allowed serial rapist and sex abuser Dr. Robert Hadden to sexually abuse 576 patients over the span of 20 years.
What Did the Report Find?
According to the 2023 investigation by Pro Publica and NY Magazine, the University ignored victim complaints, undermined prosecutors, and shielded a predator from law enforcement and the community who would have a natural affinity to put their trust in a Columbia University doctor. Most professionals, particularly lawyers and doctors, have fiduciary duties to the public. A prestigious university such as Columbia has just such a duty and failed miserably.
The outrage against Hadden and Columbia University is justified. Columbia officials knew that Hadden had been arrested for these crimes, yet when he was released, Columbia allowed him to see patients a mere three days after his arrest.
Additional Payouts for Sexual Abuse Survivors
This $750 million Columbia payout is the latest in a number of payouts by Columbia for its failures. The number of survivors is over 1,000, and the institution has paid out more than $1 billion.
If you have been sexually abused by a professional, such as a medical professional, please contact me for a confidential evaluation of your case.
Thomas specializes in the litigation and trial of significant civil sexual assault, medical malpractice, personal injury, mass tort, and product liability actions. His innovative approach has led to 20 verdicts and numerous settlements in excess of one million dollars on behalf of his clients, including a recent landmark verdict for $58 Million. He has been recognized as “outstanding in the field of advocacy” nationally and internationally.
