Dr. James Heaps was an obstetrician-gynecologist and oncologist who was affiliated with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) for decades. In October 2022, Heaps was found guilty of five felony counts, including three counts of sexual battery by fraud and two counts of sexual penetration of an unconscious person. His arrest in 2019 led thousands of women to claim sexual abuse by the doctor, many of whom also claim that the university was aware of the abuse and blame the institution for not stopping him.

Reportedly, UCLA has spent upward of $700 million in lawsuit settlements for its alleged role in concealing the abuse.

“It’s the largest ever paid out by a single institution for a sexual abuse claim,” says Darren Kavinoky, an attorney, who, along with Jennifer McGrath, represents 312 women who claim they were abused by Dr. Heaps under the guise of medical treatment.

McGrath says, “To date, I know of no one at UCLA who has been punished in any way, fired, given a suspension – and yet they absolutely knew.”

In a statement released in November 2022, UCLA Health Media Relations said:

“UCLA Health is grateful for the patients who came forward. Sexual misconduct of any kind is reprehensible and intolerable. Our overriding priority is providing the highest quality care while ensuring that patients feel safe, protected, and respected.”

This episode of Dr. Phil, “Groomed and Deceived by White Coat Predators,” airs Tuesday. Check your local listing for airtimes.

This program contains sexual content. Viewer discretion is advised.

WATCH: ‘It’s A Betrayal Of Trust,’ Says Michigan Judge About Doctors Who Commit Sexual Assault On Patients

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Signs Your Doctor May Be Crossing The Line

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