Columbia University Releases Report on Hadden Abuse Case

The Columbia University Robert Hadden case continues to unfold with both the release of an internal report and an ongoing investigation by the New York Attorney General. The ProPublica investigation in 2023 highlighted how Columbia ignored women and protected Hadden, a longtime OB-GYN. Despite a federal conviction and a 20-year sentence for Hadden, questions remain about the university’s responsibility. The NY Attorney General investigation has significant powers over New York’s nonprofits, including Columbia. Advocates like Evelyn Yang and Marissa Hoechstetter, survivors of Hadden’s abuse, have emphasized the need for institutional accountability and supported the Adult Survivors Act.

A New York State law that opened a one-year window in 2022 for survivors of sexual assault to file civil suits, even after the statute of limitations had passed.

Columbia has committed to reforms including improved patient safety, a $100 million fund for victims, and an independent investigation. They also sent letters to almost 6,500 patients in November 2023, notifying them of Hadden’s misconduct.

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