July 25, 2018
Utica, NY – NYS Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs Executive Director Denise M. Miranda announced today that the Utica Police Department has arrested and filed additional sex crime charges against local psychiatrist Surendra Johri, following a joint investigation with the New York State Justice Center.
“We will not tolerate the misdeeds of licensed professionals who abuse their authority and the people in their care,” said Executive Director Miranda. “The harm they can do to people who rely on them for healing is incalculable.”
Johri (DOB: 12/10/1956) has been arrested on the following charges:
- Two counts of forcible touching, a Class A misdemeanor; and
- Two counts of sexual abuse in the third degree, a Class B misdemeanor.
Johri is due to appear in Utica City Court again on August 1, 2018. The charges stem from an alleged incident that was brought to the attention of the Utica Police Department and the Justice Center after the announcement of Johri’s prior arrest for sexual abuse. The prior arrest of Johri occurred last month, charging sexual abuse of a different victim. That matter is currently pending.
This most recent arrest stems from incidents occurring in 2017 at Community Health Behavior Services where Johri is alleged to have touched a female patient sexually.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office of the Honorable Scott McNamara, Oneida County District Attorney.
About the Justice Center
The Justice Center has statutory authority to investigate and prosecute crimes against vulnerable New Yorkers. The agency also assists other law enforcement agencies – such as the New York State Police, local police departments, and district attorneys – with their investigations that involve abuse or neglect of people with special needs.
In addition to its law enforcement authority, the Justice Center is also empowered to pursue administrative actions against staff found responsible for misconduct. Workers found responsible for the most egregious conduct are permanently barred from employment at facilities serving vulnerable populations under the Justice Center’s jurisdiction.
The Justice Center operates a statewide, toll-free hotline for people reporting allegations of abuse, neglect, and significant incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To report incidents of abuse and neglect call 1-855-373-2122.
Editor’s note: In compliance with Disciplinary Rule 7-107A of the Code of Professional Responsibility, you are advised that a charge is an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.