The former medical director of a Virginia hospital that serves vulnerable children is on trial for allegedly sexually abusing two teenage patients. Daniel N. Davidow, who served as the medical director of the Cumberland Hospital for Children and Adolescents for decades, faces four felony counts in connection with the allegations made by two former patients. The young women testified that Davidow groped their breasts and genitals during physical examinations as part of the admissions process. The prosecutor described the exams as a “ruse” to touch the girls inappropriately, taking advantage of their vulnerable conditions. The defense attorney, however, denied the allegations and raised concerns about the motivations of the former patients, who are seeking compensation in a separate civil case against Davidow and the hospital.
One of the former patients testified that she engaged with attorneys in the civil case seeking justice, not compensation, as she was unfamiliar with the legal system. The defense attorney argued that discrepancies in the accounts given by the victims raised concerns about their credibility. Despite these challenges, the prosecution continued to assert that the exams were a pretense for inappropriate touching by Davidow, who maintained his innocence. Davidow pleaded not guilty to two counts of a felony indecent liberties charge and two counts of object sexual penetration. The hospital, which specializes in treating children and young adults with complex medical needs, is located in New Kent County, east of Richmond.
Cumberland Hospital treats patients with chronic illnesses, brain injuries, and neurobehavioral disorders, accepting referrals from around the world. The defense attorney listed nearly three dozen witnesses who may be called to testify in Davidow’s defense. The trial is ongoing, with the defense expected to present its case in the coming days. Virginia State Police began investigating staff at the hospital in 2017, leading to charges against several former employees. The civil case filed by dozens of former patients against Davidow and the hospital is set for trial in September, with five plaintiffs seeking justice for alleged misconduct. Despite the challenges faced by the victims in recounting their experiences, the prosecution remains steadfast in pursuing justice for the alleged abuse suffered by these vulnerable children.
