Context:

Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian have agreed to a $750 million settlement with hundreds of women sexually abused by former gynecologist Robert A. Hadden, increasing the total compensation for his actions to nearly $1 billion. Hadden's abuse spanned two decades, starting in the early 1990s, and he used his medical position to exploit patients, leading to his conviction in 2023 and a 20-year prison sentence. The settlement, approved by the New York Supreme Court, involves 576 victims and follows previous agreements totaling over $200 million. Columbia University has expressed regret for the pain caused and is committed to repairing harm, having already established a $100 million settlement fund. The case highlights the importance of institutional accountability, with victims like Evelyn Yang speaking out and legal representatives emphasizing the ongoing nature of abuse investigations.

Dive Deeper:

• Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian's settlement with victims of Robert A. Hadden amounts to $750 million, pushing the total settlements related to his actions to nearly $1 billion. This agreement follows earlier settlements where his former employers paid more than $200 million to victims.

• Hadden, a former gynecologist, was convicted in 2023 for sexually abusing patients over two decades, including children, and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. His abuse was facilitated by his position and the authority it conferred, which he used to convince victims that his actions were medically necessary.

• The settlement was approved by the New York Supreme Court and involves 576 women who were abused by Hadden. The litigation against him began in 2012, predating the #MeToo movement, and has been described as a long road to justice for the victims.

• Prominent figures, including Evelyn Yang, have come forward as survivors of Hadden's abuse, which underscores the widespread impact of his actions. Yang was assaulted by Hadden while seven months pregnant, highlighting the vulnerability of his victims.

• In 2016, Hadden avoided prison time through a plea deal with the Manhattan district attorney, surrendering his medical license and pleading guilty to lesser charges. His conviction in 2023, however, led to a federal sentence and further institutional scrutiny.

• Columbia University has committed to investigating the failures that allowed Hadden's abuse to persist for so long. They have partnered with a third-party investigator and set up a $100 million settlement fund, extending the deadline for survivors to claim compensation to May 15.

• The case serves as a significant message about institutional accountability, with victims like Laurie Maldonado emphasizing that the settlement is about accountability rather than money. Legal representatives acknowledge the potential for more victims to come forward, reflecting the complex nature of abuse investigations.