A California dentist who prosecutors said created a “reign of terror” environment was sentenced on September 19 to 75 years to life in state prison for sex-related offenses against five women patients and an extern, according to a story published by MyNewsLA.com.
Dr. Emad Fathy Moawad, 55, who a jury convicted in July of felony counts of sexual battery by restraint, five felony counts of sexual penetration by use of force, and one misdemeanor count of sexual battery, also must register as a sex offender.
The July trial was the Marina del Rey, CA, dentist’s second. A verdict could not be reached during the first trial. Moawad has been in jail since his arrest in 2021.
During closing arguments at the trial, the prosecution asked jurors to find Moawad guilty because he allegedly treated the women as “his play toys” in what they referred to as a “reign of terror.”
The defense argued that Moawad, a practicing dentist for 25 years, did nothing wrong and, therefore, should be acquitted. Also, it was suggested that the women were motivated by money.
Between 2013 and 2020, Moawad, who operated a practice with his wife, Dr. Katerina Moawad, was accused of sexually assaulting women between the ages of 19 and 73.
The investigation into Moawad began after a patient sued the dentist for sexual battery, sexual harassment, and sexual violence. This patient accused him of molesting her while she was under anesthesia for dental treatment. She claimed dental practice staff heard her yell at Moawad and accuse him of assault.
During a different visit, the alleged victim accused Moawad of putting his hands inside her underwear and rubbing her while she was under local anesthesia. She alleged that Moawad held her down until she managed to break free and run from the room. Furthermore, a dental assistant reportedly shot a video of one of the assaults to bring and end to the alleged assaults. The investigation revealed other victims.
