In a recent court session, a 64-year-old general practitioner named Stephen Cox faced serious charges of indecent assault.
The allegations include accusations of touching women’s breasts and pressing his genitals against them.
This case has stirred significant public interest, as it involves multiple accusations from seven different women.
Background of the Accusations
Stephen Cox, who practiced as a GP in Bracknell, Berkshire, between 1988 and 1997, is currently on trial for 16 counts of indecent assault.
The charges stem from incidents reported by women who were patients during that time.
Among the troubling claims, one woman alleges that Cox pushed her against kitchen cupboards and grabbed her throat during a home visit.
Details of the Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutor Chris Hewertson argues that Cox derived ‘sexual gratification’ from these assaults.
He asserts that Cox’s actions were not only inappropriate but criminal, carried out under the guise of routine medical exams.
Hewertson highlighted that some of the women involved were pregnant at the time, which adds another layer of distress to the allegations.
Jury’s Role and Case Expectations
The jury at Reading Crown Court has been instructed to listen to testimony from medical experts and victims.
Hewertson posed critical questions to the jury, such as why seven women would independently make similar allegations against a reputable doctor.
The prosecution’s argument will center around the notion that Cox’s actions were driven by sexual pleasure rather than medical necessity.
Anticipated Defense and Next Steps
Cox’s defense is expected to counter these claims by denying any wrongdoing, stating that he does not recall the incidents.
The trial is a retrial, and Judge Sarah Campbell has instructed the jury to avoid researching previous case details.
The court proceedings have been adjourned until Tuesday, when the case will continue.
TDPel Media
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