‘Serial predator’ GP sexually assaulted his patients

A former Romford GP has been jailed for sexually assaulting four women over a four-year period.

Manish Shah, 53, received two life sentences, with a minimum term of 10 years, to run concurrently, at the Old Bailey today (Monday,January 9).

He was convicted of 25 counts of sexual assault following the conclusion of a trial on December 14.

The court heard that, over four years from 2009 to July 2013, Shah took advantage of his position of trust as a GP in Romford to persuade women to have invasive examinations when there was no medical need for them, doing this for his own sexual gratification.

Each victim reported a similar pattern of behaviour against Shah, explaining that he seemed to be a good doctor and was friendly and caring.

Using his position and the relationship he had created with them, he convinced the victims that they would need extra examinations to explore whether there was anything more serious about the minor conditions they had attended for.

None of the examinations were needed or requested by the patients themselves.

Shah would go against protocol and not offer chaperones during their appointments, leaving them alone with him to carry out these acts.

Detective Chief Inspector Tariq Farooqi said: “Shah is a serial predator and someone who has targeted and caused great harm and pain to many people. I would like to, again, thank the victims and their bravery throughout this investigation.

“We do not tolerate violence against women and girls in any form and I hope this serves as another reminder that those who commit such offences will be found and justice will be served.

“I ask any person who is a victim of rape or sexual assault, regardless of when it happened to report it to police. We will treat your allegations seriously and support you throughout the process."