BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — The trial of former gynecologist Mark Walker continued on its second day, unveiling further details related to accusations of sexual assault involving two former interns. Walker, who previously worked at the now-defunct Mansion Street Women’s Health in Marshall, faces charges stemming from incidents that allegedly occurred over a decade ago.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, jurors watched a police interrogation video from 2019 in which Walker was questioned after the initial allegations emerged. One of the alleged victims testified she was 16 when Walker reportedly touched her inappropriately during an examination in 2011. He allegedly asked her, “Are you using this thing?” after cupping her crotch, leading to an investigation that began eight years after the incident was said to have happened.
In the recorded interview, Walker claimed he could not recall the specific incident but suggested the intern may have misunderstood him when he advised her to be cautious regarding her relationship with a boyfriend. “I just look out for the general welfare of whoever it might be,” Walker stated, referring to his responsibility toward patients and colleagues alike.
Marshall Deputy Chief Kristopher Ambrose, who took the stand, indicated that Walker did not categorically deny the accusations and appeared to be dismissive when questioned. However, during cross-examination, Ambrose confirmed that Walker did assert he had not touched anyone inappropriately.
Ambrose also faced scrutiny from the defense for his investigation methods, acknowledging that he did not visit the site of the alleged incident at Mansion Street. This absence raised questions regarding the thoroughness of his inquiries.
The prosecution’s case included testimony from a child abuse pediatrician, an expert on the trauma of sexual assault, although the defense objected, arguing that the witness’s relevance was diminished because the alleged victim had sought treatment as an adult.
The day concluded with the prosecution beginning to present evidence from a second alleged victim, another intern who claimed Walker inappropriately touched her while explaining a uterine procedure. In addition to these two allegations, Walker is accused of assaulting five former patients dating back to 2002, with claims of inappropriate touching and groping during medical examinations.
These patients allege Walker exploited vulnerable moments and manipulated them, using religious pretexts to gain their trust and access. Walker’s medical license has been suspended since he was charged in 2019, and further charges stemming from these accusations are expected to be tried later.
This ongoing case has sparked significant public attention as it raises larger issues surrounding sexual misconduct in the medical field, putting a spotlight on the responsibilities of healthcare professionals in safeguarding the welfare of their patients.
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