Former gynecologist Robert Hadden, 64, is facing threats and extortion from fellow inmates at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, his legal team revealed. They argue that these threats, fueled by false accusations of child molestation, justify a reduced prison sentence of three years, significantly less than the decades he potentially faces for sexually abusing hundreds of patients.
Hadden's lawyers detailed the harrowing conditions he faces in a pre-sentencing submission to the Manhattan federal court. They claim that he lives in constant fear, remains confined to his cell as much as possible, and experiences physical symptoms like rashes and significant weight loss due to the stress. Hadden seeks solace in religious practices and by tutoring fellow inmates.
Robert Hadden, center, leaves the federal courthouse in New York on Jan. 24, 2023. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)
In January, following a two-week trial where nine former patients testified against him, Hadden was convicted on four counts of enticing victims to cross state lines for sexual abuse. His sentencing is scheduled for July 24th, with victim impact statements to be heard on June 28th.
Hadden's prior 2016 plea deal in state court, related to a smaller number of victims, resulted in the loss of his medical license but no jail time. He practiced at prominent Manhattan hospitals—Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York-Presbyterian Hospital—until the allegations surfaced a decade ago. These institutions have subsequently settled civil claims from over 200 former patients for more than $236 million.
During the federal trial, Hadden's defense didn't dispute the abuse but argued that his state court plea covered those offenses. They contested the federal charges, claiming Hadden was unaware of the victims' state of origin.
The Bureau of Prisons has not yet responded to requests for comment, and federal prosecutors, who will submit their pre-sentencing arguments later, declined to comment.
