Former UCLA Gynecologist Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing Patients

A former gynecologist at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) was sentenced to 11 years in prison on Wednesday for sexually abusing female patients. The criminal trial came after the university system made nearly $700 million in lawsuit payouts connected to the case.

Dr. James Heaps, 66, had been in custody since a jury convicted him in October of three counts of sexual battery by fraud and two counts of sexual penetration of two patients. Heaps had pleaded not guilty to 21 felony counts in the sexual assaults of seven women between 2009 and 2018.

After sentencing Heaps, Judge Michael D. Carter ordered him to register as a sex offender, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office said. Heaps had been a longtime UCLA campus gynecologist prior to his arrest.

The sentencing comes after the university system made nearly $700 million in lawsuit payouts connected to the case. The university has also taken steps to improve its response to sexual misconduct allegations, including the creation of a new Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

The case has highlighted the need for better oversight of medical professionals and the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for patients. It has also raised questions about the university’s handling of sexual misconduct allegations and its commitment to protecting its students.