DE lawmaker wants to suspend statute of limitations in sex abuse cases

The proposed suspension of the statute of limitations for health care workers is similar to action taken in response to allegations of abuse by priests.

Following multiple accusations of sexual abuse against a Delaware pediatrician, one state lawmaker wants to suspend the state’s civil statute of limitations to allow victims to file suit against a health care provider accused of abuse.  The measure, proposed by House Majority Leader Peter Schwartzkopf and others, is modeled after a similar two year “look-back” for victims of abusive priests.

Schwartzkopf, a 25-year veteran of the State Police, says the allegations of abuse against Dr. Earl Bradley in Lewes are like nothing he’s seen before.  “While we can’t undo what has happened, we can make sure that these and any other victims who are sexually abused by a health care provider can seek legal action,” he said.

The measure, which was pre-filed while state lawmakers are on a six week break, was assigned to the House Economic Development, Banking, Insurance and Commerce Committee.

Earlier today, the Delaware Board of Medical Practice permanently revoked Bradley’s medical license.  The move follows the temporary suspension of his license in December.