In a significant turn of events, the criminal case against George Tyndall, a former USC campus gynecologist accused of sexually abusing 16 patients, has been dismissed. This decision follows Tyndall’s death last year, leaving many alleged victims without the justice they sought. Tyndall’s attorneys assert his innocence, while the victims express disappointment over the abrupt end of legal proceedings.

The Dismissal and Alleged Victims’ Reactions

Superior Court Judge Larry Paul Fidler granted the defense’s request to dismiss the case due to Tyndall’s death from natural causes. The alleged victims, including two who spoke during the hearing, shared their feelings of grief and frustration. One victim emphasized the need to prevent such incidents in the future, urging accountability for institutions and decision-makers.

Tyndall’s Cause of Death

The County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner concluded that Tyndall died from heart disease, with diabetes playing a contributing factor. His death occurred less than two months after the judge ruled there was sufficient evidence to proceed to trial on charges related to sexual assault between 2009 and 2016.

Legal Proceedings and USC’s Response

The legal journey involved eight charges being dismissed earlier, and Tyndall planned to testify in his own defense. Meanwhile, USC faced scrutiny, with allegations of a cover-up and a substantial financial settlement paid to Tyndall following internal investigations in 2016. USC officials denied a cover-up, implemented new protocols, and settled lawsuits amounting to $852 million in March 2021.

Settlements and USC’s Measures

In March 2021, attorneys representing hundreds of victims reached an $852 million settlement with USC, the largest of its kind against a university. A previous $215 million settlement in 2020 compensated around 17,000 former patients. Some victims argued that USC paid Tyndall to resign quietly in 2016 after an internal investigation.

USC’s Apology and Tyndall’s Surrendered License

USC President Carol Folt expressed deep regret for the pain caused by Tyndall, who surrendered his medical license in September 2019. The university claimed to have implemented measures to address complaints, hired female physicians, and introduced patient education materials.

Allegations of Collusion and Unresolved Concerns

Outside the court, victims and their attorneys expressed concerns about collusion to keep the abuse a secret for decades. Some victims lamented the lack of a conviction, emphasizing the importance of a trial to achieve justice. Tyndall’s sudden death, without prior knowledge of a terminal illness, left both sides disappointed.

Unanswered Questions and Seeking Accountability

The dismissal of the case against George Tyndall raises significant questions about accountability, institutional practices, and the pursuit of justice for the victims. While legal proceedings have concluded abruptly, the impact of Tyndall’s alleged actions continues to reverberate, urging a closer examination of the broader issues surrounding sexual misconduct in professional settings.