Each state has its own set of statutes and regulations on licensing doctors, accommodating patients who wish to file complaints, and releasing information about physicians who have been subject to discipline and legal action. On this page, we’re sharing the key findings regarding Louisiana, which we will continue to update as the series progresses.
Key fact: In 2015, the legislature approved and Gov. Bobby Jindal signed a bill to limit the power of the Board of Medical Examiners to investigate doctors. Among the provisions, the law banned the executive director from directing investigations, set time limits for the board to initiate and complete an investigation, and required a majority vote of the board before a formal investigation is initiated.
“It’s a dark day for the people of Louisiana…”
— Dr. Robert Marier, former executive director of the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners, in response to state legislation setting limits on the board’s investigations.
The gynecologist was accused of taking photos of unsuspecting patients' genitals. After an indictment on 269 felony charges, he pleaded guilty in 2014 to 20 criminal counts. He was sentenced to eight years in prison. It was believed his offenses dated back to 1998.
Among the original charges were video voyeurism, sexual battery and molestation of a juvenile. There was at least one civil lawsuit by a woman who said a photo shows her facial profile as well as her breast area. She had gone to him for treatment of a cold.
LaFuria surrendered his license in 2007.
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