Orange County doctor accused of groping and sexually abusing patients

An Orange County doctor has been arrested for allegedly groping and sexually assaulting patients.

The suspect was identified as John Carl Hoefs, 79, of Irvine, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.

Hoefs is a practicing hepatologist at a Hoag-affiliated medical practice in Irvine and has been affiliated with the University of California, Irvine and the Liver Specialty Center.

According to court documents, since 2020, Hoefs has been accused of assaulting a patient who suffered from liver disease in five separate incidents.

During these alleged assaults, Hoefs turned the victim’s doctor’s coat over to expose her breasts before grabbing her during a doctor’s visit.

Each time the woman attempted to cover herself, Hoefs allegedly shifted the dress so that it continued to expose her breasts for the remainder of the exam, authorities said.

A second female victim allegedly groped Hoefs during medical examinations in November 2016 and October 2017.

Hoefs was arrested May 3 and released after posting $500,000 bail.

Authorities believe there may be other victims who have not yet come forward.

“Sexual predators come in all forms and in all walks of life – even those who wear white medical coats,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “Women seeking potentially life-saving medical treatment should not be victims of sexual abuse by the medical professionals to whom they have trusted their lives. This blatant abuse of trust will not be tolerated.”

An arraignment hearing is scheduled for June 13 at the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach.

The incidents are still under investigation. Anyone who may be a victim or has additional information about Hoefs’ activities is asked to call Irvine Police Detective Rebecca Steen at 949-724-7170 or email [email protected].