Dr. Naleen Thota, a senior intensive care doctor, has been suspended from practicing medicine for 12 months following convictions for sexual assault against two female National Health Service (NHS) workers.

Convictions and Tribunal Findings

The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service determined that Dr. Thota’s fitness to practice medicine is currently impaired. The 55-year-old doctor was found guilty last year at Swansea Crown Court of two counts of sexual assault that occurred while he was employed at Morriston Hospital in Swansea.

Details of the Assaults

The tribunal, led by chair Bushra Tabassum, detailed how the assaults involved unwanted physical contact and verbal comments, creating a hostile and intimidating environment for the victims. Dr. Thota, who qualified in India and has practiced in the UK for 22 years, exploited his position of authority as an associate specialist in anaesthetics.

Evidence presented to the court showed Dr. Thota deliberately targeted the women when they were alone within the hospital. He used his professional role to facilitate the attacks.

Victim Testimony

Specifically, the tribunal heard accounts of Dr. Thota hugging a colleague multiple times and then inappropriately squeezing her hip while making suggestive remarks. Victims described feeling vulnerable and powerless.

One victim stated that Dr. Thota “wielded his position of power like a weapon to hurt me and silence me.” The second victim characterized his behavior as “predatory and calculating,” noting he used a “friendly facade” to groom them before the assaults.

Criminal Case and Sentencing

Despite initially denying the charges, Dr. Thota was found guilty after a full trial. Judge Catherine Richards condemned his actions as “a gross and calculated abuse of power and position,” emphasizing his disregard for the impact on his victims.

Judge Richards also commended the victims for their bravery in coming forward and enduring the trial process, acknowledging their “enormous courage and strength.”

Additional Penalties and Suspension Details

Beyond the 12-month suspension from practice, Dr. Thota received a 21-month suspended sentence in the criminal proceedings. He will not immediately serve time in prison unless he commits further offenses.

He was also ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid work and participate in a rehabilitation program. Furthermore, he is required to register as a sex offender for 10 years, and restraining orders were issued preventing contact with his victims for the same duration.

While the defense counsel argued the actions brought shame upon his family, the tribunal prioritized public protection and professional standards.

The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service will review Dr. Thota’s case again before the end of his suspension to determine his fitness to return to practice.