Darius Paduch, a former urologist once celebrated for his expertise in male reproductive health, was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday after being convicted of sexually assaulting numerous patients — including six minors — over more than a decade at some of New York City’s most prestigious hospitals.
The 57-year-old was found guilty in May of six counts of inducing individuals to travel for illegal sexual activity and five counts of coercing minors into unlawful sexual acts. The sentence, handed down by Judge Ronnie Abrams in Manhattan federal court, marks the culmination of a case that prosecutors say exposed a pattern of exploitation hidden behind the facade of medical care.
“Darius Paduch preyed on patients who turned to him for help with deeply personal medical concerns,” U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said in a statement. “Instead of providing care, he used his position to gratify his perverse desires, violating the trust placed in him by some of the most vulnerable individuals.”
Paduch’s crimes spanned more than a decade, with allegations stretching back to 2007. Prosecutors detailed how the disgraced physician manipulated patients at facilities including Weill Cornell Medical Center, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, and Northwell Health Systems. Under the guise of routine medical examinations, Paduch subjected his victims to invasive and sexually abusive acts, often convincing them the procedures were medically necessary.
Court records revealed he engaged in a variety of abusive behaviors, including masturbating patients, instructing them to perform sexual acts in his presence, and using sex toys during supposed medical treatments. Some victims reported enduring years of abuse during repeated appointments, manipulated into believing that the procedures were legitimate.
“Paduch’s abuse was as pervasive as it was perverse,” Williams said. “His actions betrayed the fundamental oath to ‘do no harm,’ leaving lasting trauma for his victims.”
In the aftermath of his arrest in April 2023, hundreds of former patients stepped forward to accuse Paduch of misconduct. A staggering total of 310 individuals have filed civil lawsuits against the doctor, making him one of the most prolific sexual abusers among medical professionals in U.S. history.
“These lawsuits underscore the depth of his depravity,” said attorney Anthony DiPietro, who represents several victims. “Paduch exploited his authority to commit unspeakable acts, and his life sentence is a vital step toward justice for the survivors.”
The civil complaints also highlight additional allegations of malpractice, including unnecessary and painful procedures performed without anesthesia and botched surgeries that resulted in lasting physical damage.
Lawyers representing the victims have also vowed to pursue civil cases against these organizations, accusing them of turning a blind eye to complaints and enabling the disgraced doctor’s behavior.
“For nearly two decades, these institutions ignored red flags, allowing Paduch to continue his exploitation unchecked,” said Mallory Allen, an attorney representing over 140 former patients. “Their negligence amplified the suffering of countless individuals.”
While the life sentence provides closure for some, attorneys emphasize that it is only the beginning of a broader effort to hold those who facilitated Paduch’s actions accountable.
“Our fight is far from over,” DiPietro said. “The institutions that allowed this predator to operate under their watch must answer for their failures. Every victim deserves justice, and we will not rest until they receive it.”
