Yuma doctor accused of sexual abuse enters not guilty plea in court

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The former Yuma family medical doctor accused of sexually abusing at least three patients entered a not-guilty plea on Tuesday in court.

This was 36-year-old Edsel Sandoval's third appearance in Yuma County Superior Court.

We're also learning more about other potential victims who have come forward since his arrest.

Sandoval faces at least seven charges of sexual abuse and assault tied to three former patients.

According to court documents, the alleged abuse dates back to April 2022 with the victims being all women ages 20 to 43 years old.

The Yuma Police Department (YPD) said after his arrest last month, eight additional people have come forward against Sandoval bringing the total number of potential victims to 11. 

YPD said more charges could be added as more potential victims come forward.

Sandoval presented with an amended indictment.

Court documents state Sandoval intentionally and knowingly engaged in sexual contact, sexual intercourse, or oral sexual conduct without the consent of the alleged victims.

Prior to his arrest, Sandoval worked at Sunset Health where he practiced medicine. 

And before that, Sandoval was employed by Yuma Regional Medical Center.

Sandoval is currently out on a $500,000 bond and will be back in court for his final management conference in June.