A California jury has found a dentist who claimed he was trying to help female patients suffering from temporomandibular disorder (TMD) guilty of 11 counts of felony sexual battery and one misdemeanor sexual battery, according to news reports.
Mark Anderson, D.D.S., of Woodland, CA, was arrested in September 2007 for allegedly touching the breasts of one patient. Twenty-six other women eventually came forward with similar reports. The incidents occurred between February 2005 and August 2007. His dentistry license was suspended after his arrest.
During the six-week trial, defense attorney Michael Rothschild argued that Dr. Anderson was treating his female clients for TMD by using massage techniques in the upper body. A prosecution expert testified that some dentists believe chest muscles are related to TMD problems. The defense also claimed that the women were on medications that distorted their view of what happened.
In addition to the guilty verdicts, the jury found Dr. Anderson not guilty on two felony counts, and it was unable to reach a decision on six other counts.
Dr. Anderson's sentencing is set for April 24. He faces up to 14 years in state prison for the convictions. Civil lawsuits have also been filed against him by five of the victims.
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