WEST LINN, Ore. – Dozens of patients who accused a former West Linn doctor of sexual abuse are calling for the release of grand jury transcripts in their cases. More than a hundred women have joined a civil lawsuit against Dr. David Farley, alleging sexual abuse while under his care. However, Farley has not been criminally charged, and the grand jury declined to indict him on criminal charges. The patients are now demanding transparency to understand what went on during the grand jury proceedings.
The request for the release of the transcripts comes after an op-ed article by Clackamas County District Attorney John Wentworth, defending his handling of the case. Wentworth stated that Oregon law prohibits the release of grand jury records. However, civil attorney Tom D’Amore, who represents over a hundred people alleging abuse, argues that the transcripts should be made public to provide a complete picture of what the grand jury considered.
This renewed push for transparency comes after an independent investigation conducted by the City of West Linn found errors in the Farley investigation. The report revealed that the lead detective was unprepared to handle the case and failed to note crucial information. The investigation’s findings have raised questions among the victims regarding what truly transpired during their ordeal.
Several former patients have come forward to speak about their experiences with Farley, stating that he abused them for years. In 2020, the Oregon Medical Board revoked Farley’s medical license for dishonorable and unprofessional conduct, as well as gross or repeated negligence. Although Farley retired in 2020 and relocated to Idaho, there is an ongoing civil case against him.
The patients’ call for transparency is driven by their desire for justice and closure. Releasing the grand jury transcripts would provide insight into the information presented during the proceedings and address any concerns about what might have been omitted. By shedding light on the testimonies and evidence considered, the patients hope to seek a fair resolution to their cases.
The release of the grand jury transcripts could potentially lead to new developments in the investigation. Civil attorney Tom D’Amore suggests that if the transcripts reveal that key information about sexual abuse was not presented to the grand jury, a new grand jury should be convened to reconsider the charges against Farley. The patients’ ongoing quest for justice continues, as they seek clarity and accountability in their pursuit of closure.