| Doctor charged over hepatitis spread |
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Friday, 27 May 2011 16:59
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A DOCTOR has been charged over allegations he infected nearly 50 women who visited his clinic with hepatitis C. Police say anaesthetist James Latham Peters, 61, of Hawthorn will face 162 separate counts, including 54 counts of conduct endangering life, 54 counts of recklessly causing injury and 54 counts of negligence causing serious injury. Police formally laid charges just before noon at the St Kilda Rd police complex where he was being held. Police said the investigation continues, and Dr Peters could face further charges. The expected charges against Dr Peters come after a lengthy and complex investigation by police Taskforce Clays, established in April last year to investigate how the disease was spread to patients at the Croydon Day Surgery. He was taken into custody before 10am and is believed to be being questioned at the St Kilda Rd police complex. The women had gone to the clinic to have abortions before being infected. A further 19 women treated by the doctor showed signs of past infection but there was not enough virus present for a definitive ruling. At least 4000 women who used the centre, now known as the Maria Stopes centre, have already been contacted in connection with potential exposure to the disease. The Health Department says a further 241 women treated at the clinic between 2008 and 2009 could not be contacted, but it continues to cooperate with the police inquiry. "We would urge them to contact the Department of Health at their earliest opportunity,’’ a police spokeswoman said. Affected patients with concerns can contact the department hotline on 1300 651 650. Anyone with information urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au Add this page to your favourite Social Bookmarking websites;         
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