David Farley, MD was a family physician in West Linn, Oregon who was accused of sexual abuse by more than 120 of his former patients. The allegations spanned several decades, and included claims of unnecessary and ungloved pelvic exams, fondling, and performing check-ups in his bedroom at home.
In October 2020, the Oregon Medical Board revoked Farley’s medical license and issued a $20,000 civil penalty against him for unprofessional conduct and repeated negligence. Farley admitted to taking photos of the genitals and breasts of five patients, all under 18, but claimed he provided consent forms for the minor’s parents to sign but could not provide the records. He said he deleted the photos from his phone and shredded the consent forms, according to board documents.
In November 2020, three of Farley’s former patients filed a civil lawsuit against him, alleging sexual abuse and battery. The lawsuit also named the medical institutions where Farley worked, alleging that they were negligent in concealing his misconduct. The lawsuit is still ongoing, and no trial date has been set.
In September 2022, a Clackamas County grand jury declined to indict Farley on criminal charges. The district attorney’s office said that the statute of limitations had expired on many of the allegations, and that there was not enough evidence to support the remaining allegations.
The lawsuit against Farley is one of the largest sexual abuse lawsuits in Oregon history. The plaintiffs are seeking $290 million in damages. The outcome of the lawsuit could have a significant impact on other survivors of sexual abuse, and on the medical institutions that employ doctors.
Sources
More Stories
Medical Diagnostic Laboratories Lawsuit
Medical Device Lawsuit Settlement Amounts
McDonald’s Settles Lawsuit