New York Attorney General Letitia James is investigating Columbia University’s handling of allegations against former OB-GYN Robert Hadden, who continued to see patients for weeks after his 2012 arrest on sex crimes charges. The investigation centers on the university’s institutional response to Hadden’s misconduct.
Columbia Under Scrutiny
A ProPublica investigation revealed that Columbia ignored warnings about Hadden and ultimately protected him. In 2012, the university allowed Hadden to continue treating patients days after a patient called 911 to report a sexual assault. Hadden pleaded guilty to abuse in 2016 and was later convicted in federal court, receiving a 20-year prison sentence.
Following the ProPublica investigation, Columbia committed to reforms including improved patient safety measures, a $100 million fund for victims, and an independent investigation. However, advocates, students, and survivors argue that more action is needed to address the university’s role in the abuse.
Four hundred Columbia medical students recently demanded disciplinary reviews for administrators who allegedly failed to act on warnings about Hadden. Unlike other universities dealing with similar cases, no Columbia administrators have been disciplined or lost their jobs. Dr. Mary D’Alton, who received a letter authorizing Hadden’s return to work, remains chair of the obstetrics and gynecology department.
Columbia declined to comment on the investigation. The Attorney General’s office has the authority to compel action from New York nonprofits like Columbia, having previously forced the Trump Foundation to shut down and secured reforms from the National Rifle Association.
Survivors have expressed hope that the investigation will lead to accountability. Evelyn Yang, a survivor assaulted by Hadden after his return to work, noted the timing in relation to revelations about Columbia affiliates’ ties to financier Jeffrey Epstein. Columbia promised to examine the circumstances that allowed Hadden’s abuse to continue, but has yet to publish a report detailing its findings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Attorney General’s investigation?
The investigation was prompted by a ProPublica investigation from the fall of 2023 that revealed how Columbia ignored warnings and protected Robert Hadden.
What has Columbia done in response to the allegations?
Columbia has committed to reforms including improved patient safety, a $100 million fund for victims, and an independent investigation. The university has also announced it would send letters to almost 6,500 former patients.
What is the status of the report Columbia commissioned to examine the circumstances of Hadden’s abuse?
The report has not yet been published. Columbia acknowledged last week that there are “many questions” about the timing of the investigation and expects the report to be released “soon.”
As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen what further actions the Attorney General’s office may take and whether Columbia will face additional consequences for its handling of this case.
