A former Department of Veterans Affairs doctor was guilty of sexually assaulting a veteran patient four years ago during a routine physical exam at a Georgia county hospital, according to the Justice Department.

Rajesh Motibhai Patel69, had been accused of assaulting four patients, but was found guilty by a federal jury in only one of those cases. In a statement, VA Inspector General Michael Missal, whose office helped investigate the allegations, called the verdict an important step toward restoring patient trust in the health care system.

“VA employees are responsible for keeping our nation’s veterans safe while they receive care. Acts of violence against veterans in VA facilities are reprehensible and break that trust,” he said. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable anyone who commits these crimes.” »

Patel was removed from his position at the Joseph Maxwell Cleland Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center in spring 2023 after department officials were informed of the sexual assault allegations. He had previously worked there as a primary care physician.

Justice Department officials said Patel inappropriately groped female patients’ breasts and vaginal areas during several routine exams between 2019 and 2020. A federal jury acquitted him of charges related to three victims, but found him guilty of assault in the fourth case.

“Veterans who sought treatment from him, like the victim in this case, placed their trust in Dr. Patel, and he violated that trust,” U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan said in a statement. “We hope his conviction will bring some healing to those affected by his crimes.” »

Patel is scheduled to be sentenced on February 20.