Michigan law would bar sex offenders from practicing again

In 2002, 44-year-old dentist Donald R. Quinn of Michigan was convicted of drugging and raping a 27-year-old patient. He was sentenced to a year in jail plus probation, and had his license revoked.

But in 2007, the state dental board reinstated his license to practice -- albeit with some restrictions.

Now two Michigan lawmakers have introduced legislation that would prevent Dr. Quinn and other healthcare providers convicted of criminal sexual conduct from having their licenses reissued and resuming practice in the state.

Currently, healthcare professionals who are convicted sex offenders in Michigan can regain their licenses on a case-by-case basis, often with added restrictions.

In Dr. Quinn's case, his reinstated license prohibits him from possessing or prescribing controlled substances, and requires that he work under the direct, onsite supervision of another dentist approved by the state Department of Community Health.

Even so, when word got out that the state dental board was allowing him to resume the practice of dentistry, Dr. Quinn's victim contacted Rep. Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge, MI), a former Eaton County sheriff, asking for "justice and a change in the law."

"When I was contacted by the victim of such a horrendous attack and informed that the dentist was getting his license back, I was completely shocked," said Rep. Jones in a press release on his Web site. "Michigan residents put their sacred trust in healthcare professionals, and those who betray that trust must never be allowed to practice again."

Rep. Jones feels that the proposed legislation would ensure patient safety.

"The public would be more trusting and would feel safer with their doctor and would be able to trust them around their children," he told DrBicuspid.com.

Rep. Jones has teamed up with Rep. Bettie Scott (D-Detroit) to introduce this legislation. Rep. Scott is a retired Detroit police sergeant.

"As a female legislator, I have received numerous statements from women who have been victimized by individuals who are in a position of control, such as healthcare professionals," Rep. Scott said in a press release on her Web site. "I am committed to making sure our state's residents are protected against those who abuse their professional license to practice."

Rep. Jones expressed the hope that the dental community would get behind this legislation as they did not need such "aberrations."

The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) was informed about the proposed legislation and expressed no concerns or problems with it, Rep. Jones said. However, the organization did note that the dentist in question was not a member of the MDA.

Dr. Quinn could not be reached for comment.

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