Shocking abuses for 20 years: Gynaecologist sentenced for preying on 245 women

Renowned gynaecologist, Robert Hadden, finds himself condemned to a 20-year prison term for heinous sexual misconduct perpetrated against over 200 vulnerable patients across a span of two decades within prestigious New York hospitals.

The gravity of Hadden’s offenses, as adjudged by the federal judge presiding over the case, defies comprehension – his actions were nothing short of outrageous, horrific, and depraved sexual abuse, surpassing ordinary human understanding.

Trusting Hadden with their well-being, these victims endured an unthinkable betrayal as he subjected them to molestation during gynaecological examinations, inflicting both emotional and physical scars. The judge emphasized that many of these victims were in a particularly susceptible state, including pregnant women and those facing physical challenges, making them easy prey for Hadden’s predatory instincts.

Though Hadden expressed remorse during sentencing, stating, “I’m very sorry for all the pain that I have caused,” such words proved hollow for some survivors. Liz Hall, one of the victims, articulated her sentiments, asserting, “That was not an apology. He has shown zero remorse or empathy. I think he’s incapable.”

The #MeToo movement, gathering momentum in 2017, thrust this case into the public eye, sparking outrage among victims who had sought justice from state prosecutors previously. Nevertheless, an earlier plea bargain had spared Hadden from incarceration and prevented his inclusion in the state’s sex offender registry, leaving many women disillusioned.

Federal prosecutors intervened in 2020, leading to Hadden’s conviction on four counts of inducing women to cross state lines for sexual abuse. During the trial, nine courageous victims testified against the gynaecologist, recounting harrowing experiences they endured at renowned medical institutions like Columbia University Irving Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

The trial’s impact transcended the courtroom, precipitating significant changes in New York law, allowing survivors of sexual abuse to pursue legal action even after the statute of limitations had lapsed. Hospitals employing Hadden agreed to pay an unprecedented $236 million to settle civil claims filed by more than 200 former patients.

Dian Monson, one of the victims, disclosed that she had reported the abuse to Columbia as early as 1994, but the hospital failed to take action until Hadden’s crimes were exposed more recently. Her statement spoke to the collective effort to bring Hadden to justice, remarking, “I kind of caught him. We all kind of caught him.”

The sentencing of Robert Hadden stands as a testament to the unwavering resolve of these brave survivors who finally witness their abuser facing the consequences of his actions. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity to unite in the battle against such abhorrent crimes and to safeguard against their occurrence in the future.