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Norco Doctor Arrested For Allegedly Sexually Assaulting At Least 2 Patients

LOMA LINDA (CBS) — An Inland Empire doctor has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting two patients, according to authorities.

Dr. Ramon Fakhoury, 35, is facing eight felony counts stemming from incidents that took place at Loma Linda University Medical Center's urgent care clinic where he works part-time.

Investigators believe the initial incident took place on July 11 when Fakhoury treated a 32-year-old woman for chest pains.

"Two days later the female victim contacted the Loma Linda staff to report that she had been sexually assaulted by the doctor during the exam," said Jody Miller of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.

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KNX 1070 reports.

Hospital officials say Fakhoury was immediately placed on administrative leave once they became aware of the situation.

While investigating the accusation, hospital officials discovered that a 68-year-old woman also alleged she was assaulted by Fakoury.

The victims' accounts of the assaults indicate they took place within a 24-hour period around July 11.

"At present, the physician is no longer employed by Loma Linda University Family Medicine Group, and his medical staff privileges at the medical center are suspended," the hospital said in a statement issued Wednesday.

"As a health care institution, providing a safe environment is a commitment we make to our patients and their families, as well as our staff. Concerning this incident, we took all the necessary steps to assure that we uphold this commitment. We will continue to do so as the investigation goes on."

Dr. Fakhoury, who has been licensed to practice medicine in California for six years, turned himself into police Tuesday. His bail has been set at $1 million.

"Dr. Fakhoury did not sexually assault anybody at any time. We are looking forward to an opportunity to have our day in court and we are confident that he will be acquitted," said his attorney, Courtney Pilchman.

Fakhoury, of Norco, is scheduled to be arraigned Thursday morning on charges of Forcible acts of sexual penetration, sexual battery, assault with the intent to commit felony, and crimes against elder adult, among others.   He faces 10 to 13 years in prison if convicted.

Detectives say Fakhoury also has offices in Rancho Cucamonga and Norco and believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information should contact Detective Mark Hubbard or Ken Green at (909)387-3545.

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