Rathenow – A doctor (45) affiliated with the Havelland Clinics in Rathenow and Nauen is in custody following allegations of sexual abuse of a child. Clinic administrators addressed the situation in a press conference Wednesday, following a day of silence.
Allegations and Investigation
On November 2nd, a mother reported the doctor to authorities alleging abuse of her child, who was a patient on the pediatric ward. The doctor initially denied the accusations to his superiors. However, a subsequent search of the doctor’s data storage by the public prosecutor’s office revealed “indications of further acts of abuse” involving children and adolescents. According to State Prosecutor Marieke Piazolo, the investigation currently covers a period from 2016 to November 2025, and could be extended.
Despite assurances from the clinic’s special representative, Carolin Himberg, that “in all the years, no similar suspicion has been raised against the accused,” a judge issued an arrest warrant on November 25th. The clinic did not terminate the doctor’s employment until a month later, on the day before Christmas Eve.
Breach of Protocol
Clinic administrators acknowledged a breach of their child protection protocol. Chefarzt Torsten Kautzky stated that the principle of ensuring no staff member is alone with a child was violated, as the accused doctor was alone with the child. Klinik-Boss Spychalski conceded that “protection concepts cannot guarantee to cover all possibilities.”
Authorities seized additional documents, including patient data, from the clinic last Wednesday. The Havelland Clinics treat between 1500 and 2300 children annually. State Prosecutor Piazolo indicated that if evidence of negligence emerges, investigations into the clinic’s leadership may also be pursued.
Klinik-Boss Spychalski stated that he and his colleagues expressed their regret to the affected family and offered support, but noted that “the family has not yet responded.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the doctor’s arrest?
The doctor was arrested following a mother’s report of abuse of her child, and subsequent findings by the public prosecutor’s office of “indications of further acts of abuse” on his data storage.
What is the clinic’s stated policy regarding patient interaction?
The clinic’s policy dictates that children should only be examined in the presence of a qualified professional or a parent.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The public prosecutor’s office is currently investigating alleged abuse incidents occurring between 2016 and November 2025, with the possibility of extending the timeframe.
Given the gravity of these allegations and the ongoing investigation, what steps can healthcare institutions take to reinforce trust with patients and families?
