**Army Doctor Reaches Plea Deal for Sexual Misconduct**
In a shocking turn of events, Maj. Michael Stockin, an Army physician stationed at the Madigan Army Medical Center on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, has reached a plea deal with prosecutors after being accused by more than 40 patients of sexual misconduct. The allegations against Stockin include 47 counts of abusive sexual contact and five counts of indecent viewing, marking one of the largest prosecutions of its kind by the Army. His attorney, Robert Capovilla, confirmed the plea agreement, which is expected to be entered in January, canceling the trial that was set to begin at that time.
**Victims Speak Out**
The victims of Stockin’s alleged sexual misconduct have bravely come forward to share their harrowing experiences. In a report aired on “CBS Mornings,” two men detailed incidents where Stockin abused his position of trust to commit acts of sexual assault under the guise of medical care. One victim described seeking treatment for arthritis in his shoulders, only to be subjected to a humiliating examination where Stockin touched his genitals without consent. The other victim recounted three instances of sexual abuse during what he thought was a routine medical visit, leaving him feeling violated and confused.
**Implications of the Plea Deal**
The news of Stockin’s plea deal has sent shockwaves through the military community, raising questions about the handling of sexual misconduct cases within the armed forces. Despite being suspended from patient care, Stockin still retains administrative duties at Madigan Medical Center, sparking concerns about accountability and oversight within the Army. The plea deal, which carries no mandatory minimum penalty, has left many wondering if justice will truly be served for the victims of Stockin’s alleged abuse.
**Civil Complaints and Legal Ramifications**
In addition to the criminal charges brought against Stockin, more than a dozen alleged victims have filed civil complaints against the Army and the Defense Department, alleging negligence in protecting them from abuse. These victims claim to have suffered severe and irreparable harm at the hands of Stockin, further complicating the legal landscape surrounding this case. The potential for a prison sentence of over 300 years, should Stockin be convicted on all counts, highlights the gravity of the allegations against him and the long road to justice that lies ahead.
As the trial date looms, the Army’s Office of Special Trial Counsel has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the plea agreement, only confirming that a resolution has been reached. The victims, their families, and the public at large eagerly await the start of the trial, where more details are expected to emerge about the extent of Stockin’s alleged misconduct and the impact it has had on those affected.
In a statement to CBS News, attorney Ryan Guilds, who represents seven of the alleged victims, including the two men who shared their stories, declined to comment on the plea deal. This silence underscores the sensitivity and complexity of the legal proceedings surrounding Stockin’s case, as both sides prepare to present their arguments in court.
**Conclusion**
The case of Maj. Michael Stockin serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of sexual misconduct within the military and the challenges faced by victims seeking justice. As the plea deal moves forward and the trial date approaches, the focus remains on the courageous individuals who have come forward to hold Stockin accountable for his alleged actions. The outcome of this case will not only impact the lives of the victims but also shed light on the broader issue of accountability and transparency within the military justice system.
