5 More Women Level Groping Charges Against Beaver Co. Doctor

BRIDGEWATER, Pa. -- Five more women have accused a Beaver County doctor, already accused of grabbing a patient and kissing her, of groping them during examinations.

According to a criminal complaint, Robert Knapp, 56, straddled a woman, rubbed her and attempted to kiss her. Police said the incident occurred inside his Bridgewater business along Sharon Road.

Knapp was initially charged with indecent assault in connection with the incident. On Tuesday, police filed five additional counts of indecent assault against Knapp.

Police said nearly 30 women came forward with allegations against the doctor after reports of the alleged groping incident he was charged with earlier this month.

Investigators said some of the allegations against the endocrinologist stretch back more than 15 years.

Knapp's lawyer, Bernard Rabik, suggested the women are lying and cited a pending civil case as possible evidence of attempted extortion.

Bridgewater Police Chief Doug Adams called Knapp a predator. He said 30 women, ages 20 to 50, have come forward claiming inappropriate behavior by Knapp. But he said most claims can't be prosecuted because they fall outside the statute of limitations.

Knapp is free on bond and still practicing.

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