Doctor In Florida Arrested For Video Voyeurism
According to a report from WTSP, Dr. Pola Gayed—a physical therapy physician—from Polk County and Florida has been arrested for video voyeurism after allegedly recording a juvenile who was changing in a medical room. The doctor is also facing an evidence tampering charge. Here, our Orlando sex crimes defense lawyer for doctors discusses the allegations and charges in more detail.
The Allegations: Physical Therapy Doctor Videotaped Minor With Ring Camera
Dr. Pola Gayed is a 38-year-old physical therapy doctor from Polk County. He has been arrested on charges that include both video voyeurism and evidence tampering. It is a very serious case. Dr. Gayed stands accused of allegedly secretly filming a juvenile in a private changing room at the Ava Rehab Clinic (Lake Wales, Florida).
The incident came to light when the juvenile discovered a concealed Ring Camera during a session. The juvenile reported the matter to their parents. Following the report by the juvenile’s parents, local police launched an investigation. The City of Lake Wales Police Department reportedly discovered the hidden camera in the clinic and subsequently arrested Dr. Gayed. The matter is still under investigation. As with any person arrested for a crime, the doctor is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
An Overview of the Criminal Charges
The doctor in this case was arrested for two separate criminal charges. Here is an overview of the legal definition of the charges that are currently being alleged in this matter:
- Video Voyeurism: Video voyeurism is a crime that involves secretly recording or capturing images of a person without their consent in settings where the individual has a reasonable expectation of privacy. This includes places like changing rooms, restrooms, or other private spaces where someone would not expect to be observed or recorded. The intent behind such actions often involves sexual gratification or exploitation.
- Evidence Tampering: Evidence tampering refers to the act of altering, destroying, concealing, or falsifying any evidence that is relevant to an investigation or court proceeding with the intent to obstruct justice. This can include physical evidence, digital files, documents, or any other item that could influence the outcome of a legal case. Tampering with evidence is a serious offense. It is a third degree felony in Florida.
Doctor Could Face Professional Sanctions (Separate Process)
The doctor implicated in the voyeurism scandal could also face severe professional sanctions, independent of the criminal proceedings. It is always an issue for doctors involved in criminal matters. The Florida Medical Board can take adverse action against a licensed doctor who violates medical ethics and professional conduct requirements.
Contact Our Orlando Criminal Defense Lawyer for Doctors Today
At The Baez Law Firm, our Orlando criminal defense attorney for physicians has the professional experience that you can rely on. If you or your loved one is a doctor facing sex offense charge, we are here as a resource. Reach out to us by phone or contact us online for your confidential case review. From our Orlando office, we defend medical professionals throughout Central Florida.
Source:
wtsp.com/article/news/local/polkcounty/lake-wales-doctor-pola-gayed-arrest-video-voyeurism/67-51c6a7b1-c70c-45b8-b289-3e43b3434b75
