Indianapolis News and HeadlinesWRTV Investigates

Actions

Boone County children's doctor on trial for child molestation, seduction

Dr. Jonathon Cavins worked for Witham Health
Posted at 7:11 PM, Feb 10, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-10 19:16:19-05

LEBANON — Testimony is expected to begin Tuesday in the trial of a Boone County children's doctor facing a number of charges, including child molestation.

Jurors were picked Monday in the trial of 42-year-old Dr. Jonathon Cavins in Boone County Circuit Court. The pediatrician is accused of molesting children in his care.

PREVIOUS | Lebanon pediatrician's licenses suspended amid molestation accusations

It's a case that came to light about one year ago and as it unfolded, additional patients came forward with allegations against the doctor. In all, the total number of alleged victims is five.

Cavins faces charges of child molestation, sexual misconduct with a minor, child seduction, and vicarious sexual gratification.

The parents of a 12-year-old boy spoke to Call 6 Investigates after they said Cavins molested their son during an examination. The parents called police, and Boone County prosecutors criminally charged Cavins, saying they found evidence that corroborated the 12-year old’s story.

After the 12-year-old accused Dr. Cavins, prosecutors said more alleged victims came forward and they filed additional charges.

The family filed a civil lawsuit against Cavins, accusing him of sexually molesting their son and causing physical trauma and severe emotional distress.

"What he did was violate my child and what he did was wrong, and he absolutely needs to be held accountable for his actions," the mom said. “He needs to be held accountable for forever changing my little boy’s life.”

The boy’s mother says she always told her children they could trust doctors.

“You never think that’s something you’re going to have to take back and say ‘don’t trust anyone if it feels uncomfortable,’” mom said.