Army anesthesiologist gets 13 years behind bars for abusing dozens of men during unnecessary exams

Army Anesthesiologist Sentenced to 13 Years for Abusing Patients

A military doctor received a lengthy prison sentence for sexually abusing numerous men during unnecessary medical exams

Crime

Washington, US Army, Michael Stockin, Sexual Abuse, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Fort Leavenworth

Washington: A US Army doctor, Major Michael Stockin, has been sentenced to 13 years and eight months in prison. He pleaded guilty to charges of sexual misconduct involving dozens of men he treated for pain management.

Stockin, who worked as an anesthesiologist at Madigan Army Medical Center, received the maximum sentence after a plea deal. The judge handed him four months for each of the 41 victims.

According to Michelle McCaskill from the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel, Stockin will serve his time at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas and must register as a sex offender.

He admitted to 36 counts of abusive sexual contact and five counts of indecent viewing. Most of his victims were active or former military members seeking pain management, and he inappropriately groped them during exams.

The investigation into Stockin began in February 2022, leading to charges in 2023 as the number of victims grew. His guilty plea wraps up the criminal side, but a civil case is still in progress.

At least 22 victims have filed a lawsuit against the Army and the Department of Defense, claiming the military is responsible for Stockin’s actions.

During the trial, some victims shared how their experiences have affected their trust in the military. One Army captain mentioned that he now feels he can’t trust those in higher positions.

Major Ryan Keeter, who led the prosecution, praised the victims’ resilience throughout the ordeal. He acknowledged the trauma they’ve faced over the years.

Christine Dunn, an attorney for many victims, welcomed the sentencing but emphasized the need for accountability from the Army for allowing this to happen.

Dunn noted that many of these brave soldiers now struggle with anxiety and shame, making them hesitant to seek medical help.

She will also represent clients in the ongoing civil case, which she described as just beginning.

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