BALTIMORE – Johns Hopkins Hospital officials have agreed to pay $190 million to as many as 8,500 patients who signed onto a class-action lawsuit against a hospital gynecologist who secretly taped the patients during pelvic exams.
In February 2013, police discovered video clips and images of Dr. Nikita Levy’s patients, which the gynecologist had taken using a small camera hidden in everyday objects, like a pen, The Washington Post reports.
When hospital officials discovered Levy had taken the photos and videos without patient knowledge or consent, they fired him, prompting a police investigation.
Authorities seized six cameras concealed in pens, two cameras hidden in keychain fobs, four computers and external hard drives in Levy’s home.
Levy was found dead Feb. 18, 2013 with a helium-filled plastic bag over his head and a note of apology to his wife.
Attorneys for the plaintiffs said an estimated 12,500 people were victimized by Levy.
Funds for the settlement will be paid through insurance.
