David Broadbent Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
The case against former Utah OB-GYN, David Broadbent, has captured national attention as over 100 women have stepped forward with serious allegations of sexual abuse. These women are seeking justice through a lawsuit against both Broadbent and the healthcare institutions that employed him. Broadbent allegedly took advantage of his role as a trusted doctor to exploit patients—many of whom weren’t fully aware of what a proper OB-GYN exam should involve. Now, as these survivors push for accountability, they are demanding justice not only for Broadbent’s actions but also from the healthcare facilities that may have turned a blind eye. At Ethen Ostroff Law, we take a closer look at these disturbing claims, outlining the legal options available to those impacted, and asking the important questions about how the healthcare system may have failed these women.
David Broadbent: Who Is He?
David H. Broadbent, a former OB-GYN in Utah, spent over 40 years in the medical field before becoming the center of serious sexual abuse allegations. Throughout his career, he worked at various medical facilities, including well-known hospitals and his private practice. For many, Broadbent was considered a trusted and experienced doctor, providing what appeared to be routine medical exams for women.
His professional journey took him through prominent Utah institutions like Utah Valley Hospital, managed by Intermountain Healthcare, and Timpanogos Regional Hospital, part of the MountainStar Healthcare network. It was at these facilities that Broadbent allegedly performed numerous examinations and procedures, often on young women who were unfamiliar with what a proper OB-GYN exam should involve.
Despite these ongoing accusations, Broadbent continued to practice until recent years, when a surge of complaints led to investigations and ultimately the surrender of his medical license.
Lawsuits Against Dr. David Broadbent
Utah OB-GYN Dr David Broadbent was charged in June 2024 with sexual abuse after a patient claimed he touched her inappropriately during a 2020 exam. This criminal charge comes after more than 100 former patients have accused him of similar misconduct in civil lawsuits. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison.
Reports from The Salt Lake Tribune and ProPublica have highlighted the struggles many women faced when attempting to report Broadbent’s behavior, often encountering roadblocks in both the legal and police systems. According to charging documents, one patient consulted Broadbent in 2020 about a bump. She alleges that during the exam, he lifted her shirt and bra, touched her breasts without explanation, and then continued with an uncomfortable and invasive exam. Authorities are still investigating and may file further charges.
At least 49 women have reported similar incidents to Provo police, describing exams where Broadbent allegedly touched intimate areas without warning, leaving them feeling hurt and violated. In response, the county attorney’s office has hired a sexual assault expert to assess if Broadbent’s actions align with normal OB-GYN standards.
Close to 120 women have filed civil lawsuits against Broadbent and the hospitals where he worked, accusing him of crossing professional boundaries. One group of 94 women’s lawsuit was dismissed by a judge, who ruled that it fell under medical malpractice law, which has tighter deadlines. This decision is under appeal. Another David Broadbent sexual abuse lawsuit, filed by 20 other women, targets hospitals for allegedly ignoring his behavior. However, the hospitals argue they’re not responsible as these incidents didn’t happen on their premises.
Broadbent has agreed to halt his medical practice while these investigations continue. His attorneys deny the allegations, calling them unfounded.
Specific Allegations in the David Broadbent Sexual Abuse Lawsuits
Over 100 women have come forward with serious accusations against former OB-GYN David Broadbent, describing experiences that are both shocking and heartbreaking. Here’s a closer look at what these women have shared:
- Unnecessary Physical Contact: Broadbent allegedly crossed boundaries during exams, touching patients in ways that went far beyond what’s considered standard OB-GYN care, often without any consent.
- Improper Breast and Pelvic Exams: He’s accused of performing unnecessary exams—sometimes without gloves—and making inappropriate contact while claiming it was “routine.”
- Lack of Consent and Explanation: Many patients say Broadbent never explained procedures or sought consent, especially with those who were new to OB-GYN care and had little understanding of what was appropriate.
- Inappropriate or Intimidating Behavior: Broadbent’s conduct reportedly felt sexual or threatening, leaving patients feeling vulnerable, exploited, and unsafe.
- Negligence by Healthcare Institutions: The lawsuits argue that the hospitals employing him ignored repeated complaints, allowing Broadbent to continue practicing unchecked despite the troubling reports.
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Survivors talk about lasting impacts—anxiety, shame, and even a hesitation to seek future medical care—stemming from their experiences with Broadbent.
These lawsuits are seeking justice for Broadbent’s alleged actions and calling for accountability from the healthcare facilities where he worked. They emphasize the need for stronger patient protections in medical settings.
Hospitals Named in David Broadbent Abuse Lawsuits
Intermountain Healthcare and MountainStar Healthcare are also at the center of serious allegations linked to the sexual abuse claims against former OB-GYN David Broadbent. The lawsuits allege that these healthcare institutions failed to take appropriate action when multiple patients raised concerns about Broadbent’s inappropriate behavior.
Specific Allegations Against the Hospitals Where Broadbent Worked
The lawsuits against Dr David Broadbent don’t just target him. They also point to the hospitals that let him practice, questioning their role in all of this. Here’s what the lawsuits claim:
- Turning a Blind Eye to Patient Complaints: Many women reported troubling behavior, but the hospitals didn’t take them seriously or act fast enough to investigate. This left patients feeling ignored.
- Failing to Protect Patients: Despite these concerns, the hospitals reportedly allowed Broadbent to keep practicing, putting more women at risk.
- Lack of Proper Oversight: The hospitals failed to properly monitor their staff, letting warning signs of Broadbent’s misconduct go unnoticed.
- Downplaying Survivors’ Concerns: When patients spoke up, their complaints were often brushed aside, preventing a proper investigation into Broadbent’s actions.
- Failure to Implement Safeguards: After the allegations were made public, the hospitals didn’t take steps to protect future patients from harm.
- Enabling the Abuse: By allowing Broadbent to keep working without addressing the complaints, the hospitals are seen as contributing to his ongoing misconduct.
Timeline of David Broadbent's Sexual Abuse Allegations
Here’s a straightforward timeline of the major events in the David Broadbent sexual abuse case. These key moments highlight the legal and public developments surrounding the accusations against him:
- August 8, 2024: The Utah Supreme Court ruled that nearly 100 women could file lawsuits against Broadbent, overturning a lower court’s decision. The court emphasized that sexual assault is never part of legitimate medical care.
- October 2022: Lawsuits against Broadbent also named his former employers, Intermountain Healthcare and MountainStar Healthcare, accusing them of enabling and covering up his abuse.
- September 2022: Broadbent was criminally charged with forcible sexual abuse after allegedly touching a patient inappropriately during a 2020 exam, the first criminal charge despite over 100 civil lawsuits.
- December 2021: A former patient shared her traumatic experience on a podcast, prompting other women to come forward, file lawsuits, and report their experiences to the police.
Legal Options for Victims of David Broadbent's Abuse
Victims of David Broadbent’s alleged abuse have several legal options available to seek justice and compensation for their experiences, including:
- Civil Lawsuits: Victims can file lawsuits against Broadbent and the hospitals that employed him to seek compensation for emotional distress, medical expenses, and other damages.
- Criminal Prosecution: Victims can support criminal charges against Broadbent, which could lead to his conviction and possible imprisonment.
- Medical Malpractice Claims: If the abuse happened during medical procedures, victims may pursue medical malpractice claims for the harm caused.
- Reporting to Medical Boards: Victims can report Broadbent’s actions to medical boards, which may result in disciplinary actions, such as revoking his medical license.
- Emotional and Psychological Support: Victims can seek therapy or counseling to help cope with the emotional impact of the abuse. Compensation for mental distress may be included in legal settlements.
These options allow victims to hold Broadbent accountable and seek justice. Working with a skilled attorney is important for navigating these legal routes.
Who Can File a David Broadbent Lawsuit?
Anyone who believes they were victimized by David Broadbent’s alleged abuse during a medical examination may have the right to file a lawsuit. This includes:
- Women who experienced sexual abuse or inappropriate touching during exams with Broadbent.
- Individuals who received medical care from Broadbent and were subjected to harmful behavior.
- Patients whose complaints about Broadbent were ignored or downplayed by the hospitals.
- Family members of victims who suffered emotional or psychological harm due to Broadbent’s actions.
Parties You Can Sue in a David Broadbent Lawsuit
If you’re considering filing a David Broadbent sexual abuse lawsuit, there are several parties you may be able to hold accountable. Here are the main parties you could potentially sue:
- David Broadbent Utah: The primary individual responsible for the abuse.
- Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Institutions like Intermountain Healthcare and MountainStar Healthcare, accused of enabling or covering up his actions.
- Medical Staff or Supervisors: Other medical personnel who may have been complicit or failed to act on complaints.
Legal Claims in a Lawsuit Against Dr David Broadbent
If you are considering a lawsuit against Dr David Broadbent for sexual abuse, there are several legal claims that may apply, depending on the details of your case. Here are some potential claims you could pursue:
- Sexual Assault: A claim based on Broadbent’s alleged non-consensual physical contact or other inappropriate actions.
- Battery: A claim focused on unwanted touching or physical contact that occurred during medical exams.
- Medical Malpractice: A claim related to abuse that took place under the guise of medical treatment or procedures.
- Negligence: A claim that the healthcare facilities or staff failed to prevent or address Broadbent’s misconduct.
- Emotional Distress: A claim for the psychological harm caused by Broadbent’s actions, including anxiety, depression, or trauma.
- Fraud or Deceptive Practices: A claim if Broadbent misrepresented his intentions or performed unnecessary medical procedures to justify his actions.
Steps for Filing a Lawsuit Against Dr David Broadbent
If you or someone you know has been affected by Dr David Broadbent‘s alleged abuse and is considering legal action, here are the key steps to take:
- Talk to a lawyer from Ethen Ostroff Law to understand your options.
- Gather evidence like medical records or witness statements.
- Work with your lawyer to file a formal complaint.
- Serve David H. Broadbent and others with the complaint.
- Go through discovery to exchange information.
- Your lawyer may try to settle before trial.
- If no settlement is reached, the case goes to trial.
Common Legal Challenges in Sexual Abuse Cases
Sexual abuse cases, like those involving David H. Broadbent, can present difficult challenges. Understanding these obstacles can help survivors seek justice:
- Survivors often struggle with emotional barriers. An attorney can offer the support needed to move forward.
- The statute of limitations can limit the time to file a lawsuit. An attorney can ensure the deadlines are met and explain exceptions.
- Collecting evidence, especially in older cases, can be difficult. An experienced lawyer can help gather important documents and witness testimony.
- Defendants may deny the allegations or try to discredit the survivor. A lawyer can counter those defenses effectively.
- Proving institutional responsibility can be complex. A lawyer can help establish that the institution knew about or enabled the abuse.
- Media attention and public scrutiny can add stress. A lawyer can protect privacy and manage the legal process with discretion.
Sexual Abuse Statute of Limitations in Utah
In Utah, there are specific time limits for victims of sexual abuse to file a lawsuit. If you were an adult at the time of the abuse, you generally have four years from the incident to take legal action. For childhood sexual abuse, Utah law gives victims the option to file a lawsuit up to four years after they turn 18 or four years after they realize the abuse occurred, whichever is later. This also includes cases where institutions or others may have allowed the abuse to happen. To fully understand how this applies to your David Broadbent lawsuit, consult an attorney for personalized advice.
Compensation Available in a David Broadbent Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
Filing a David Broadbent sexual abuse lawsuit not only holds him accountable but also allows survivors to seek financial compensation for the harm they’ve endured. Damages that may be recoverable include:
- Past medical and mental health costs
- Future expenses for mental health treatment, like therapy and medications
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and psychological impact
- Lost wages due to the abuse
- Other related economic and emotional damages
Ethen Ostroff Law: Your Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Lawyers
A predatory and discredited healthcare professional like David H. Broadbent doesn’t deserve to get away with what he did. Victims are encouraged to secure legal representation and file suit to bring Broadbent and responsible institutions to justice. Bringing those responsible to justice can be an uphill battle—but it does not need to be. If you’ve suffered any form of sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, or sexual assault during an appointment at Broadbent’s office, file a lawsuit and seek compensation for what you’ve experienced. Contact Ethen Ostroff Law for a free and confidential consultation.
