Dr. Daniel Davidow, the former medical director of the Cumberland Hospital for Children and Adolescents in Virginia, was acquitted of sexually abusing two teenage patients during physical exams. The charges were decided by a judge, who found Davidow not guilty of felony indecent liberties and object sexual penetration. Davidow’s attorney, Craig Cooley, stated that the verdict was based on the lack of credibility of the complainants and the evidence presented. Despite the acquittal, Cooley acknowledged that the accusations alone can damage someone’s reputation.
During the trial, prosecutors alleged that Davidow used physical exams as a cover to sexually abuse the young patients. However, Davidow and his attorneys vehemently denied any inappropriate conduct. Cooley described Davidow as a dedicated physician who was committed to helping children with complex medical needs. He also raised concerns about the motivations of the former patients, noting that they are seeking millions of dollars in a civil lawsuit against Davidow, the hospital, and its parent company. Both women testified that Davidow touched their genitals and breasts during exams when they were teenagers.
The top prosecutor in New Kent County, where the hospital is located, stated that the girls were in vulnerable conditions and had no caregivers while living at the residential facility. Renick argued that Davidow had complete control over the patients as the medical director. Kevin Biniazan, an attorney representing the two women in the civil lawsuit, praised their courage in fighting against both an individual and an institution. The women, now adults, displayed true bravery in coming forward about the alleged abuse they experienced during their time at Cumberland.
Virginia State Police began investigating staff at the hospital in 2017 after reports of misconduct. Davidow is at least the third former Cumberland employee to face charges in connection with a patient. A psychotherapist was charged with sexual abuse but died by suicide before his court hearing, while a behavioral technician was sentenced to prison for harming a disabled child. The allegations of abuse and misconduct within the hospital raise concerns about the safety and care provided to vulnerable children and young adults. The case also highlights the challenges faced by victims of sexual abuse in seeking justice and holding perpetrators accountable.
