PAOLI, PA — A Wayne-based dentist pleaded guilty Thursday to simple assault by physical menace after admitting to inappropriately touching a female patient during a 2024 appointment, the Chester County District Attorney’s Office announced.
Key Points
- James Godorecci pleaded guilty to groping a patient during a TMJ treatment session.
- He was sentenced to two years’ probation and must undergo sex offender treatment.
- The plea agreement was reached with input from the victim, who was present in court.
Incident occurred during dental appointment
The assault took place on January 3, 2024, at Main Line Dental Aesthetics in Paoli. The victim was receiving treatment for Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, or TMJ, when James Godorecci, the treating dentist, touched her breasts and nipples under her shirt and bra, according to the agreed-upon facts in court.
Godorecci, who now faces professional and legal consequences, received two years’ probation. Conditions of the sentence include no contact with the victim and mandatory participation in a sex offender treatment program.
Licensing consequences and official response
In addition to criminal penalties, Godorecci must comply with all directives from the Pennsylvania state licensing board. The court proceedings and plea agreement were carried out with the victim’s consultation and presence.
District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe commended the victim’s bravery in speaking out. “No one should go in for medical treatment and get assaulted by the very person who is supposed to help them,” he said.
Investigation and legal process
The investigation was conducted by the Tredyffrin Township Police Department in collaboration with county prosecutors. Police Chief Michael Beaty credited the outcome to coordinated efforts between investigators and attorneys.
Godorecci’s status as a practicing dentist will now be subject to decisions by Pennsylvania’s dental licensing authorities.