Ex-USC gynecologist George Tyndall pleads not guilty to sex abuse charges
LOS ANGELES _ Wearing a blue suicide-prevention vest, George Tyndall, the gynecologist accused of sexual misconduct toward hundreds of University of Southern California students, pleaded not guilty Monday to charges of sexually abusing 16 patients at the campus clinic where he practiced for decades.
Following a couple of days in the hospital after complaints of chest pain, a disheveled-looking Tyndall made his first appearance in court since his arrest last week on 29 felony counts.
The 72-year-old former USC physician appeared in jailhouse clothing, with matted and uncombed hair. He did not address the judge but whispered with his attorney, Andrew Flier, who entered a not guilty plea as Tyndall leaned against a glass cage that holds inmates.
"He's not suicidal whatsoever," Flier told reporters outside the court.
The attorney has fast-tracked Tyndall's case, refusing to waive a preliminary hearing that was set for July 12.
"We aren't waiving prelim with this bail," Flier said outside court. "We didn't think it would be prudent or in the best interests of the client."
The move means prosecutors will be forced within days to prove there is enough evidence to proceed to trial.
Flier also asked for a hearing Wednesday to review Tyndall's $2.075 million bail.
_Los Angeles Times
