A GP has been jailed for sexually abusing women in his medical care.
Dr Wayne Sefton Davis (69) of no fixed abode, was found unanimously guilty of sexually abusing patients spanning a 15-year period while he worked as a GP in Salford, including one count of sexual assault by penetration and one count of indecent assault.
His two-week trial concluded in December, following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police.
Davis was sentenced to eight years imprisonment yesterday at Manchester Crown Court, and will be placed onto the sex offenders register for life.
A CID investigation was launched in May 2020 after two women came forward to speak out about Davis’ offending. One disclosed that during an appointment with Davis 14 years ago, he had sexually assaulted her during a medical examination before telling her ‘he needed to teach her how to pleasure her husband’.
After the first victim came forward, Davis was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and whilst he was in custody, another victim came forward to disclose that David had performed a routine medical examination before sexually assaulting her to check to see if she was “a virgin”.
Detective sergeant Charlotte Sullivan of GMP’s City of Salford district, said: “Firstly, I would like to commend the victims and survivors for how they have so bravely come forward to speak of their experiences and also for their continued support during our investigation and through the trial. This was a long and distressing process for them to endure.
“I would also like to thank our partner agencies in Salford who supported the victims and assisted our investigation which helped put Wayne Davis behind bars.
“Davis’ actions are truly horrific and shocking, he was in a position of power and used this for his own sexual gratification.
“His actions showcase a complete abuse of trust and power. He took advantage of the women in a time when they needed reassurance. He knowingly did not follow the guidance of the GP’s chaperone policy and sexually assaulted lone women in his place of work with no regard for their wellbeing whatsoever, they were seeking his advice as a medical professional for personal and private matters.
“We understand how much concern will be felt in the local community and across Greater Manchester and we would like to take this as an opportunity to assure members of the public that incidents like these are extremely rare. We continue to work closely with medical practises and the local trusts, staff, the local authority, and support organisations to ensure that patients feel safe and supported.
“This case demonstrates the seriousness with which we deal with any reports of sexual assaults or inappropriate behaviour. No matter when it happened or where it took place, we will investigate, we will support you and we will do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.”
