Ronkonkoma chiropractor charged with sexually abusing teen patient, police say
A 16-year-old girl being treated for back pain was “forcibly” touched on her breasts by a chiropractor, who was arrested Tuesday evening, Suffolk police said.
Dr. Ronald Bernardini, 64, of Smithtown was charged with sexual abuse, a misdemeanor that carries a top sentence of 1 year, and endangering the welfare of a child, police said.
Bernardini declined to comment Wednesday.
Police said in a statement that Bernardini, at his practice, Lake Chiropractic, in Ronkonkoma, was "examining a 16-year-old female patient for back pain when he forcibly touched her breasts at approximately 6:15 p.m. on October 24.”
The teenager told her parents and a police report was filed; the chiropractor was arrested at his office at about 7:35 p.m. on Oct. 25, according to police.
Bernardini's arraignment in Central Islip is set for Nov. 14.
Sarra Sounds Off, Season 3, Ep 3: Top football teams in action, fantasy update and plays of the week Gregg Sarra sounds off on the Northport and Half Hollow Hills East matchup, plus Tess Ferguson has an update on the high school fantasy football standings and Jared Vailuzzi has the plays of the week.
Sarra Sounds Off, Season 3, Ep 3: Top football teams in action, fantasy update and plays of the week Gregg Sarra sounds off on the Northport and Half Hollow Hills East matchup, plus Tess Ferguson has an update on the high school fantasy football standings and Jared Vailuzzi has the plays of the week.
