Dr. Timothy Girling, a 55-year-old sexual health doctor from West Molesey, Surrey, has been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of multiple sexual assault and voyeurism offenses. Girling abused his position of trust at a medical centre in Bournemouth by inappropriately touching patients during intimate examinations and secretly recording them without consent.
The investigation began in August 2023 when a patient reported that Girling had breached professional boundaries by touching his genitals during an examination and later attempted to record him with a concealed phone. The patient intervened and took control of the doctor’s phone, prompting Girling to flee. Police quickly apprehended Girling nearby and interviewed the victim, who disclosed further inappropriate contact.
Further inquiries uncovered two additional victims who had also been sexually assaulted, one of whom was recorded without knowledge. Examination of Girling’s digital devices revealed numerous intimate images and videos of patients, some taken covertly at a residential bathroom. Authorities also discovered indecent images of children and evidence that Girling had encouraged at least one patient to send explicit photos via email.
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Following a trial at Bournemouth Crown Court, Girling was convicted of three counts of sexual assault, six charges of voyeurism, one count of attempted voyeurism, and pleaded guilty to three offenses involving indecent images of children. His actions have been described as a grave betrayal of the trust patients placed in their doctor.
Detective Constable Kit Little of Dorset Police highlighted the courage of the victims, stating that their bravery was crucial to bringing Girling to justice. The Dorset HealthCare NHS Foundation Trust has established a dedicated helpline for any individuals treated by Girling who wish to discuss concerns or seek support.
Lucy Paddick from the Crown Prosecution Service emphasized that Girling’s crimes were calculated violations of his professional duty to protect and care for vulnerable patients, and affirmed the commitment to prosecuting abuse of authority within healthcare.