A San Jose dentist suspected of fondling a patient under the pretext of performing a breast examination has been arrested.
Benva Oshana Lazar, 56, was taken into custody on suspicion of sexual battery by fraudulent representation.
Lazar was booked into Santa Clara County jail. Lazar's bail was set at $50,000 and he is no longer in custody.
The alleged victim, a 23-year-old woman, told police that she was being seen for a routine dental examination by Lazar on Sept. 18. During the visit, Lazar expressed concern to the patient about her health and the rise in cancer diagnoses. Lazar then allegedly performed what he called a medical breast examination on the patient and emphasized the importance of self-examinations.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Lazar might have touched other patients as well under pretext of performing breast exams. Because the alleged touching was performed for professional purpose, Lazar could face felony charges.
"There were comments made that this wasn't an isolated event," Lt. Mark McIninch of the Sexual Assaults Unit said. "We'd like to know about it."
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