The former gynecologist Robert Hadden is now at the center of a staggering $750 million settlement involving nearly 600 victims, following allegations of sexual abuse. This historic agreement was approved by Manhattan Supreme Court on Monday.
Hadden, a convicted sex offender, was found to have abused 299 victims, many of whom were children. Laurie Maldonand, a victim who had been under Hadden’s care for nearly a decade, emphasized that this settlement is more about holding people accountable rather than just financial compensation. She expressed that Columbia University has turned a blind eye to the abuse.
In 2023, Hadden was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his predatory behavior while working at a prestigious hospital in New York, which is associated with both Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.
Attorney Anthony T. DiPietro, who has represented victims since 2012, criticized Columbia and NewYork-Presbyterian for prioritizing their reputations over patient safety. He pointed out that he uncovered a crucial letter from Hadden, written in 1995, in which the doctor admitted to an “attack.”
DiPietro has already secured a total of $277 million for Hadden’s victims in past settlements with the university, making the total compensation related to this case exceed $1 billion.
A university spokesperson expressed regret for the suffering of patients, stating that they admire the bravery of the survivors who have come forward.
After Columbia initially proposed a $100 million victims fund, DiPietro deemed it insufficient. He also noted that the university has updated its policies regarding patient safety in light of Hadden’s actions.
This settlement is viewed as a strong statement against institutions that conceal abuse. DiPietro commented that hospitals cannot simply ignore the wrongdoing of fraudulent doctors who exploit their positions.
In addition, another physician, urologist Darius Padocci, is facing legal action as DiPietro represents 400 men claiming to be victims of malpractice by dishonest doctors.
