A MAN who sexually assaulted a heavily pregnant woman at a hospital while pretending to be a doctor has been jailed.
Gregory Boyle, 58, was sentenced to six years and four months in prison at Croydon Crown Court today for assault by penetration and sexual assault.
Boyle had pleaded guilty to the offences at the same court in March this year.
Boyle learned of the victim when her partner undertook building work at Boyle's house in 2015.
During the work, the victim’s partner confided in Boyle about her pregnancy and a heart condition.
Claiming to be a cardiologist, Boyle offered to assess the victim as a second opinion free of charge.
When the victim was admitted to hospital, her partner decided to take Boyle up on his offer as he was concerned for her welfare.
On October 21,2015, Boyle visited the victim at the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) in Kent.
'Actively sought to deceive'
He introduced himself to her as a doctor, and, on the pretext of performing a medical examination, touched intimate parts of her body.
Immediately after, a nurse found Boyle with the victim and challenged his presence on the ward.
Doubting his continued claims to be a private doctor, staff checked the General Medical Council register and could not find him listed.
After police were called, Boyle was arrested at the hospital.
Detective Constable Paul Hill from the Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command at the Metropolitan Police said: “Boyle targeted a vulnerable, heavily pregnant woman who was concerned for her health.
“He actively sought to deceive the victim, her family and the medical staff at the PRUH, giving the impression that he was a doctor.
“I would like thank the victim in this case and acknowledge her courage throughout this investigation.
“Thankfully this type of offending is rare, but should anyone recognise Boyle or believe they have been a victim at his hands, please contact the Metropolitan Police.”