Graz internist accused of secretly filming and assaulting eight patients

A Graz internist stands accused of abusing at least eight female patients over several years by secretly filming them with his smartphone and, in some cases, allegedly sedating them before assaulting them. Police in Styria confirmed on Sunday that criminal proceedings are underway against the unnamed physician, whose identity has not been released by authorities. Investigators allege that the abuse occurred during routine medical examinations at his practice in Graz, where he is said to have positioned his phone’s camera to record the intimate areas of patients without their consent.

According to reports published on 14 June 2026 by *Der Standard* and *Die Presse*, the first victim became suspicious after noticing the phone’s lens pointed toward her during an appointment. She later reported the incident, prompting an internal review that uncovered additional allegations. Police now list eight complainants, though investigators believe the true number of victims may be higher. The accused doctor, who specialises in internal medicine, has not issued a public statement, and no charges have yet been filed.

The case has sent shockwaves through Austria’s medical community, where safeguarding patient dignity is a cornerstone of professional ethics. The Austrian Medical Association has not yet issued a formal response, but a spokesperson for the Styrian Medical Chamber told *Der Standard* that any proven violation of patient rights would constitute a grave breach of trust . The chamber has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement.

Legal experts note that the use of hidden recordings and alleged sedation could significantly aggravate the charges, which may include sexual assault, violation of privacy, and the production of child pornography if minors were involved. Under Austrian law, such offences carry penalties of up to ten years’ imprisonment. Prosecutors in Graz have not disclosed whether the doctor remains in practice or has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

The scandal comes amid heightened scrutiny of medical professionals’ conduct in Austria, following a series of high-profile cases involving abuse of power in healthcare settings. Victim support groups have called for systemic reforms to protect patients from predatory behaviour, including mandatory chaperone policies during intimate examinations. The Graz case is expected to intensify calls for stricter oversight and whistleblower protections within the medical profession.

Police have urged any additional victims to come forward, emphasising that their statements could be crucial to securing a conviction. Investigators are examining digital evidence, including the doctor’s phone and clinic records, to determine the full scope of the alleged abuse. The case remains active, with no trial date set as of today.