In a troubling development, 81 women have joined a lawsuit against Army Major Blaine McGraw. These alleged victims claim they endured invasive touching and covert filming during medical examinations. This lawsuit stems from the original filing made in November, which accused McGraw of serious misconduct.
Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
The new filing was submitted by attorneys representing the victims immediately after the Army’s Office of Special Trial Counsel charged McGraw with 54 specifications of indecent visual recording. These charges were reported earlier this week.
Details of the Charges
- 54 specifications related to indecent filming.
- 44 alleged victims in the military’s case against McGraw.
- Charges of sexual assault, assault, and battery under Texas law.
The lawsuit claims McGraw made harmful and offensive contact with patients. One prominent allegation involves an active-duty soldier who suspects McGraw took unauthorized photos during a rape kit examination. She described feeling endangered during a vulnerable moment, asserting he was focused on his phone while she was exposed.
Implications of McGraw’s Actions
The repercussions of McGraw’s actions were severe. The lawsuit claims he failed to document critical medical procedures, ultimately impacting the legal case against the soldier’s alleged rapist, who was acquitted due to lack of forensic evidence.
Response From Army Officials
The Army has indicated its commitment to addressing these serious allegations. Investigations into McGraw started shortly after a patient complaint on October 17. McGraw was subsequently suspended from duty.
Victims’ Advocates Speak Out
Despite the ongoing investigation, some victims’ advocates express concern over the Army’s slow response. Andrew Cobos, one of the lawyers representing the victims, highlighted a pattern of systemic failures in cases like these.
Victims Across Multiple States
Many of the 81 women reside in Texas, where McGraw was stationed at Fort Hood. Others live in 14 different states. Most are active-duty military personnel or family members who had been stationed with McGraw in Texas and Hawaii.
Past Incidents and Systemic Failures
Allegations against McGraw date back to his role at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii as early as 2021. There are also calls for an investigation into his tenure at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Accusations suggest that the Army did not adequately respond to complaints against McGraw, allowing him to continue treating female patients.
Conclusion
The lawsuit highlights a concerning culture within the military that allegedly fails to protect women from sexual violence. The outcomes of this case could initiate critical changes within the Army’s approach to patient safety and accountability.
