Neurologist Accused of Sexual Assault Continues to Practice Medicine Pending Appeal
RIGA, Latvia – A Latvian neurologist, Leonīds Viškers, continues to see patients despite facing criminal charges and a six-month ban from practicing medicine following allegations of sexual assault. The case, currently under examination by state police, centers around accusations of exploiting a patient’s trust.
Police have qualified the proceedings under article 160 (1) of the Latvian Criminal Law, which addresses sexual acts committed thru exploitation of vulnerability, against a victim’s will, or through abuse of authority. “At the moment, all the necessary expert examinations are still being carried out. We will refrain from further comments in the interests of the investigation,” stated the State Police Public Relations Department.
The Health Inspectorate (VI) initially imposed a €1,000 fine and a six-month suspension on Viškers, the only instance of the Inspectorate issuing a work ban to a doctor. Viškers appealed the decision, first internally and then to the Rīga District Court, which reduced the fine but upheld the suspension. He has as appealed to the Regional Court of Zemgale.
According to Laura Šāberte, Head of the VI Legal Department, the appeals process currently prevents the suspension from taking effect. “The current legal framework does not provide for this additional penalty to take effect immediately. So the challenge and appeal in this particular situation suspends the operation of the decision until it enters into force.”
Viškers’ employer, FizProf medical institution, confirmed he is currently working in accordance with Latvian law and declined further comment. Viškers himself refused to address the allegations when approached by a journalist,stating,”I will not say a word about journalistic issues.” His medical license remains valid until the beginning of 2029.
