Cancer Patient Another to Accuse UCLA Gynecologist of Assault

A cancer patient is the latest woman to accuse a retired University of California, Los Angeles, gynecologist of sexually abusing her during treatment.

The Los Angeles Times reported the 44-year-old unnamed woman has sued UCLA and Dr. James Heaps, alleging he touched her inappropriately under the guise of medical examination.

Heaps pleaded not guilty in early June to criminal charges of sexual battery during his treatment of two other patients at a university facility. Heaps didn’t comment on the latest suit but has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. Heaps’ attorney, Tracy Green, called previous allegations meritless.

A UCLA Health spokesperson told the Times that the allegations in the newest lawsuit are “very disturbing.”

The newspaper says at least 22 other women have stepped forward alleging that Heaps sexually assaulted them while he was practicing at UCLA.