Doctor Accused of Drugging and Assaulting Woman in West Los Angeles
Investigation Ongoing, Authorities Seek Additional Victims and Witnesses
Authorities are seeking possible additional victims and witnesses in an ongoing investigation into a doctor accused of drugging and assaulting a woman at his home in West Los Angeles.
Arrest and Release of Doctor
Babak Hajhosseini, 42, a doctor and visiting specialist at Wound and Burn Centers of America in Los Angeles and Catalina Island Health, was arrested on November 26 on suspicion of sexual assault of an unconscious person, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. He was released on bail three days later, police said.
Alleged Modus Operandi
According to the LAPD, Hajhosseini attempted to lure potential victims by offering high-paying jobs on recruitment websites. He would then invite the potential victims to work overtime at his residence, where he would pressure them into consuming an alcoholic beverage. After consuming the beverage, the victim would fall unconscious, and Hajhosseini would sexually assault and record her.
Charges and Plea
Hajhosseini has pleaded not guilty to eight felony counts, including rape by use of drugs, rape of an unconscious or asleep person, oral copulation by anesthesia or controlled substance, sodomy of an unconscious or asleep victim, and oral copulation of an unconscious or asleep person. The alleged crimes occurred on August 18 and involved one alleged victim.
Additional Victims Sought
Though Hajhosseini is charged with assaulting a single victim, investigators believe there are other victims who have yet to come forward. Detectives are asking anyone with information to contact Officer Lee at the Operations-West Bureau, Special Assault Section at 213-473-0447 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.
Next Court Date
Hajhosseini is due back in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom on January 13, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. A date is scheduled to be set for a hearing to determine whether there is enough evidence to allow the case against him to proceed to trial.
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FAQs
- Q: What is the alleged crime committed by Babak Hajhosseini?
A: Hajhosseini is alleged to have drugged and sexually assaulted a woman at his home in West Los Angeles.
Q: How many victims are involved?
A: One alleged victim is mentioned in the criminal complaint, but investigators believe there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward.
Q: What is the current status of the case?
A: Hajhosseini has pleaded not guilty to eight felony counts, and a hearing is scheduled for January 13 to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed to trial.
