In the heart of St. Louis, court proceedings reveal a chilling exchange of drug prescriptions for sexual acts or financial gain involving a paediatrician, Dr. Craig Spiegel. The iniquitous doctor allegedly engaged in this illicit barter with a minimum of 25 women over a span of nearly a decade, as documented in charges filed in a federal court this Thursday.
Dr. Craig Spiegel, at 67, stands accused of the illicit issuance of over 1,200 prescriptions bereft of any legitimate medicinal rationale. This comprised a staggering total of over 73,000 pills, many of which were highly addictive substances, including opioids and amphetamines.
Owning and operating a clinic in Bridgeton, Spiegel issued these prescriptions aware that some recipients struggled with drug disorders or were redistributing the drugs among others, including minors, as per the allegations. The prosecution submits that “the weight of evidence is simply overwhelming,” as stated in their court filing. Inquiries to secure commentary from Spiegels’ legal representative did not elicit immediate responses.
The charges reveal an unsettling pattern, illustrating that Spiegel encountered many of his adult female victims during their tenure as child patients under his care. Notably, one of the exchanges implicated sexual favour as a barter for his services, culminating in a tragic ultimatum with a woman dying from an overdose at the young age of 40.
The allegations present a grim narrative of manipulation and misuse of power by Dr. Spiegel. One woman narrated a harrowing experience where the doctor allegedly resorted to violence to force her into performing illicit sexual acts in a public restroom. Another minor recounted experiencing inappropriate behaviour during an examination. Multiple women accused him of emotional coercion where he would guilt them into performing sexual acts as recompense for his help, often stating, “You owe me big time”.
As these distressing revelations came to light, federal investigators paid a visit to Dr. Spiegel’s clinic, questioning him regarding his misconduct. Regrettably, this scrutiny failed to deter the doctor who continued his illicit drug distribution.
It’s been about half a year since Dr. Spiegel last attended his pediatric clinic when these charges were brought against him, as per court records. Given the severity of his actions, Spiegel has been hit with charges of illegal drug distribution, a crime which could carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Recognizing the potential danger he represents, prosecutors have motioned for Spiegel to be held in detention for the duration of the court proceedings. They encourage any of Spiegel’s former patients wishing to reach out to investigators to contact the Drug Enforcement Administration at 314-240-1026, ensuring victims have an avenue to share their experiences and contribute towards ensuring justice.
