Article - May 8, 2008 - KNDO/KNDU

Richland Chiropractor Suspended after Arrest for Child Rape

RICHLAND, Wash.- A local chiropractor has his license suspended accused of sexual contact with a minor.

Doctor Jeffrey Sullivan is charged with raping a 12 year old patient.

Benton County Sheriff's Detectives arrested 46 year old Doctor Jeff Sullivan in February on suspicion of raping a 12 year old female patient. He was released on $5,000 bail.

He's since been charged with the crime and the Department of Health took away the longtime chiropractor's licence.

"Sullivan cannot practice as a chiropractor pending the outcome of a hearing," said Tammy Kelley with the Health Department.

The charges stem from a February Sheriff's investigation that led to the doctor's arrest.

Court papers obtained Thursday detail inappropriate conduct last November between Sullivan and a 12 year old female patient.

Prosecutors allege he fondled the girl, kissed her, and even more graphic details of the alleged rape KNDU can't discuss.

KNDU stopped by Sullivan's Richland office to find it locked, and a relative at his West Richland property told us he wasn't home, but KNDU did reach the Doctor on the phone who told us to contact his lawyer.

Sullivan's attorney had no comment.

The accusations shocked neighbor Nikki Depeel who lives just two doors from Sullivan's West Richland home.

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