Accusations of Former Santa Clara County Pediatrician Sexually Abusing Foster Kids
Dr. Patrick Clyne, a former Santa Clara County pediatrician and foster parent, has been accused of sexually abusing seven former foster kids during routine medical appointments. A 40-page complaint was filed recently in Santa Clara County Superior Court. The lawsuit is also seeking damages for what has been described as an alleged cover-up by Santa Clara County child-welfare officials. According to the suit, the abuse was said to have taken place between 2001 and 2011.
If you believe that your child was sexually assaulted by Dr. Patrick Clyne or another medical provider, you may contact our California child sexual assault attorney at Beck Law P.C. It may be possible to file a civil suit and recover financial compensation for the damages that were suffered.
The prevalence of Child Sexual Abuse by Pediatricians in the U.S.
There are no exact numbers that can accurately describe how widespread child sexual abuse at the hands of pediatricians is. According to experts, this is largely because such cases are underreported and, as a result, cannot be measured precisely.
Still, it is believed that the problem is serious enough that the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a formal statement addressing child sexual abuse by medical providers and providing recommendations for safeguards. Some of the safeguards include:
- Having chaperones present during sensitive exams
- Enacting clearer consent and communication practices
- Mandatory reporting rules
- Background checks and licensing oversight
- Establishing training on professional boundaries
Despite the lack of information related to how common medical providers’ child sexual abuse is, the following is known to be true. As high as 15-25% of girls and 5-10% of boys report some form of childhood sexual abuse.
Allegations of Pediatrician Sexually Abusing Foster Kids – Possible Cover-Up by Authorities
Over the past two decades, it has been reported that there have been repeated investigations of Clyne by state and local authorities. The lawsuit against the pediatrician accuses county staff of engaging in a deliberate cover-up. Specifically, the suit names a former Department of Family and Children’s Services deputy director, Ken Borelli.
In 2025, Clyne surrendered his medical license.
Accusations of Sexual Abuse by Foster Kids
In the complaint, the victims indicate that Clyne performed unrequired rectal and genital exams, engaged in inappropriate touching, and digitally penetrated patients during routine visits, as well as conveyed that invasive exams followed county requirements. Plaintiffs stated that the alleged conduct was perpetrated on them at county clinics and in group-home settings.
Santa Clara County officials have not formally commented on the case, and Dr. Clyne has denied any wrongdoing.
Speak to a California Child Sexual Abuse Attorney Today
It can be difficult to distinguish between legitimate medical care and sexual abuse by a medical professional. This is especially true for adolescents. However, there are detailed guidelines about professional boundaries and examination practices.
If you would like to discuss your case of potential child sexual abuse or if you have questions about sexual abuse lawsuits in California, you may call our California child sexual abuse lawyer at Beck Law P.C. at (707) 576-7175.
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