Psychiatrist Accused Of Sexual Misconduct With Patients

Reported by WSB-TV Atlanta

There is also this extended report, as well as this

A Tuscaloosa psychiatrist has been banned from practicing medicine in the state after allegations of sexual misconduct with at least four of his patients.

Allie Boyd's medical license was revoked when the Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners ruled on Jan. 4 that he engaged in unprofessional conduct that was "immoral, willful, and shameful" and goes against the Medical Licensure Commission's rules.

Five former patients filed suit against Boyd in May 2005, claiming sexual harassment during his care at North Harbor Pavilion, at the Tuscaloosa Treatment Center and his private residence.

Telesa Dent Morrison, Dianna Marie Spencer, Diane Cannon Watkins, Jeremy Franklin and Marcus W. Skelton filed lawsuits against Boyd, alleging that he made inappropriate sexual advances, offered prescription medication for sexual favors and, in some cases, groped them.

The suit also states that Boyd threatened to withdraw prescription medications from the patients if they did not keep the events secret.

The Tuscaloosa News reported on the incident in a story for Friday's editions. Boyd's attorney, Robert Coleman, did not immediately return calls from the paper.

Boyd sent a letter to his patients Wednesday, stating that he is retiring.

"After over 30 years in the practice of medicine, and due to recent personal health issues, I find it necessary for me to retire," the letter said. "This retirement is effective immediately."

Justice Smyth, who represents the patients, said Boyd is not facing any criminal charges but that could change if one of his previous patients makes a complaint to the district attorney.

DCH Healthcare, which runs North Harbor, is named as a defendant in two of the suits.

Spokesman Bernard Grappe said DCH first learned about the complaints through a letter from Smyth in September 2004, and Boyd was immediately placed on temporary suspension. The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners was also notified at that time.