# Florence Ophthalmologist Accused of Sexual Assault During Eye Exams A 45-year-old doctor allegedly performed inappropriate prostate exams on elderly patients. - **Source:** [Open](https://www.open.online) - **Published:** 2026-11-06 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cf65222f-04ca-4a9e-975b-fd1c9f2a795f ## Allegations of Professional Misconduct A 45-year-old ophthalmologist in Florence faces serious accusations of sexual assault involving 14 patients. Prosecutors allege the doctor used routine eye examinations as a pretext to perform unauthorized physical checks on elderly men. The investigation centers on whether these actions constituted medical necessity or were purely criminal acts of abuse. ## The Initial 2022 Complaint The investigation originated in 2022 after a pensioner reported suspicious behavior during private intramoenia consultations. The patient claimed the doctor interrupted eye exams to ask about his prostate health before initiating inappropriate contact. Although the initial case was archived due to insufficient evidence, subsequent reports eventually triggered a broader judicial inquiry. ## Systematic Investigation of Patients Following the second report, the Florence Prosecutor's Office launched a comprehensive review of the doctor's medical history. Investigators contacted nearly 200 former patients to identify patterns in the specialist's conduct. Testimony revealed a recurring scheme where the doctor claimed prostate checks were essential to assess overall health before potential eye surgeries. ## Lack of Medical Justification Medical experts and investigators emphasize that prostate examinations fall entirely outside the scope of ophthalmology. If the doctor had identified genuine urological concerns, standard medical protocol requires a formal referral to a qualified urologist. The absence of such referrals serves as a primary piece of evidence against the accused medical professional. ## Victim Vulnerability and Silence Many of the alleged victims were elderly individuals who often trusted the doctor's authority implicitly. Some patients reportedly believed the invasive checks were standard procedure, while others felt significant embarrassment, which delayed their reporting. This dynamic of trust and confusion allowed the alleged abuse to continue across multiple clinical appointments. ## Judicial Measures and Restrictions In February 2026, a judge for preliminary investigations ordered the doctor to be suspended from practicing medicine for one year. While prosecutor Alessandro Piscitelli had requested house arrest, the court opted for the professional ban. The case has now moved to the preliminary hearing judge to determine if a trial proceeds. ## Defense Strategy and Denials The doctor, represented by attorneys Filippo Cei and Cesare Martucci, maintains his innocence regarding all charges. The defense argues that the physical examinations were intended to provide a comprehensive health assessment for his patients. Legal representatives are currently considering requesting a fast-track trial, known as rito abbreviato, to resolve the case. ## Implications for Medical Ethics This case highlights the critical importance of maintaining strict professional boundaries in clinical settings. The ongoing legal proceedings will determine the extent of the doctor's liability and the validity of his defense. The outcome will likely serve as a significant precedent for patient safety and professional conduct within the Italian healthcare system. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.open.online/2026/11/06/firenze-oculista-violenza-sessuale-14-pazienti-controlli-prostata/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._