Dr. Daniel Davidow, the former medical director of the Cumberland Hospital for Children and Adolescents in Virginia, was acquitted of sexually abusing two teenage patients during physical exams. The charges against him were decided by a judge who found him not guilty of two counts of indecent liberties and two counts of object sexual penetration. Although the accusations besmirched Davidow’s character and reputation, his attorney stated that the not guilty verdict was based on the evidence and the lack of credibility of the complainants.
During the 4-day trial, prosecutors alleged that Davidow used physical exams as a “ruse” to sexually abuse two female patients. The young women, who were teenagers when admitted to the hospital, testified that Davidow groped their breasts and genitals during a physical exam as part of the admissions process. However, Davidow and his attorneys denied any inappropriate conduct, describing him as a dedicated physician committed to helping even the most difficult or medically complex children. The former patients are seeking millions of dollars in a pending civil proceeding against Davidow, the hospital, and its parent company, where dozens of former patients have accused him of inappropriate touching.
The top prosecutor in New Kent County, where the hospital is located, stated that the girls were in vulnerable conditions, living without their parents or caregivers at the residential facility specializing in complex cases and sometimes taking patients from other states under court order. The prosecutor argued that as the medical director, Davidow had complete control over the patients. Despite facing an institution rather than just an individual, the two women persevered in their fight, displaying true courage, according to their attorney. The two women were not deterred by the challenging circumstances they faced.
The Virginia State Police initiated an investigation into the hospital staff in October 2017 following the allegations of sexual abuse. Davidow is not the only former Cumberland staffer to face charges in connection with a patient. A psychotherapist was charged with sexually abusing a patient and died by suicide on the day he was due in court for a plea hearing. Additionally, a behavioral technician was sentenced to a year in prison after pleading no contest to intentionally burning a disabled child with scalding water. These incidents highlight the vulnerability of patients in facilities that care for vulnerable children and young adults.
Davidow’s attorney emphasized that the accusations alone were damaging to his client’s character and reputation, despite the not guilty verdict serving as a vindication of sorts. The former medical director has consistently denied any inappropriate conduct and continues to stand by his commitment to providing care for challenging or medically complex children. The case against Davidow, involving accusations from former patients, brings attention to the importance of thoroughly investigating allegations while ensuring the well-being and protection of vulnerable individuals in medical treatment facilities.