Irish-born doctor wanted in the US on sex charges remanded on bail

AN Irish-born doctor, wanted in the United States for fleeing the state of Florida in 2001 before his trial on child sex offences started, has been remanded on continuing bail by the High Court.

Dr David West, formerly Dr Rory Doyle, 54, with addresses at Donnybrook Manor, Belmont Avenue, Donnybrook, Dublin 4 and Sallins Bridge, Sallins, Co Kildare is wanted in Florida for failing to turn up for his trial in November 2001.

West, who denies all the accusations against him, is wanted on charges including molesting a child and fondling a child under the age of 16 years of age.

The offences are alleged to have occurred at Treasure Island, Florida on dates between September 1994, and February 1995 and at St Petersburg Florida in July 2000. All of the complainants were under the age of 13 at the time of the alleged abuse.

The US authorities further claim that while on bail West, then under his birth name of Rory Doyle but changed it by deed poll in 2004 to David West, failed to show up for his trial. West faces a potential total of 65 years in jail if convicted of the offences.

Yesterday at the High Court Mr Justice Michael Peart further remanded West on bail, after his lawyers requested more time. The court heard that his legal team wish to consult with West’s lawyer in Florida. The judge agreed to adjourn the matter.

West was granted bail after he agreed to sign on daily at Donnybrook Garda Station, surrender his passports, and after an independent surety of €100,000 was provided.

In separate proceedings, West’s registration was suspended pending a Medical Council decision on sanctions to be imposed for professional misconduct pending the outcome of the Medical Council meeting due on April 28.

West had practised at premises in Dublin city centre, including Advanced Cosmetic Surgery, Therapie Beauty Treatments and the Madison Clinic.

The Fitness To Practise Committee (FTPC) of the Medical Council on December 10 last found West not guilty of professional misconduct in relation to the complaint by his patient here.

The High Court on December 19 lifted the suspension of his registration on his undertaking not to treat children in his practice and only to perform cosmetic surgery.

During the investigation of that complaint, it was learned West had changed his name by deed poll, was the subject of charges of sexual assault in Florida and effectively fled. A second inquiry was initiated.

The second FTPC inquiry heard evidence from a complainant of the alleged sex assault in Florida who travelled from there for the hearing. West did not participate.

On March 24, the FTPC foundWest guilty of eight counts of professional misconduct and recommended the council cancel his registration.