HomeMy WebLinkAbout00-02020
,
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE,
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000--2020 CIVIL TERM
',I'
vs.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D~ and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.,
.
.
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ORDER OF COURT
IN RE: MOTION FOR PROTECTIVE
ORDER FILED BY THE BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND
AND NOW, this ~ I Sf' day of (Yl~
, 2003, after
consideration of the attached MOTION FOR PROTECTIVE ORDER
CIt"'lJlUn1wf'
the Borough of New Cumberland, a ft&-riI.g- is scheduled for
day of ~_ 200~at Ol.:~OJJm, in
I
Courtroom No. ~,Of the Cumberland County Courthouse. Further
compliance with the subpoena dated January 30, 2003 by the Borough of
filed by
the ~
New Cumberland is suspended pending a hearing on the motion.
BY THE COURT,
Andrew C. Sheely, Solicitor - CDpie6 ier<,,, persa,.....IIc~ 5.~, '()'"
for Borough of New Cumberland, petiti 7 ~ ,,~
Robin J. Marzella, Esquire _ . ~
Attorney for Plaintiff J9fY ~.~
Ad
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Peter J. Curry, Esquire - C6fY ~~
Attorney for Defendant
Family Physician Associates, Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire - e!'Jpy /tU;.,'IY!!# S/.:J.//"-J
Attorney for Defendant James G. Strupe
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE,
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000--2020 CIVIL TERM
vs.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC. ,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ORDER OF COURT
IN RE: MOTION FOR PROTECTIVE
ORDER FILED BY THE BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND
AND NOW, this
day of
, 2003, upon
consideration of the attached MOTION FOR PROTECTIVE ORDER and the
Certificates of Concurrence attached to the Motion, it is hereby
Ordered that Borough of New Cumberland shall release the requested
discovery sought by Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire, in accordance with
the subpoena dated January 30, 2003, subject to reasonable copying
charges incurred by the Borough of New Cumberland. The Borough of
New Cumberland, its agents and employees shall be held harmless
from any liability associated with producing the documents
requested and all documents obtained by such subpoena shall only
be used by Defendants and Plaintiff for purposes of the above-
referenced litigation without further leave of Court.
BY THE COURT,
J.
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Andrew C. Sheely, Solicitor
for Borough of New Cumberland, Petitioner
Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Attorney for Plaintiff
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant
Family Physician Associates, Inc.
2
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Andrew c. sheely, Esquire
127 S. Market street
P.O. Box 95
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
PA 1D NO. 62469
717-697-7050 (Phone)
717-697-7065 (Fax)
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE,
plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000--2020 CIVIL TERM
vs.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF CONCURRENCE OR NON-CONCURRENCE
I, Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire, hereby certify that I served a
copy of the attached Petition for Special Relief upon Robin J.
Marzella, Esquire, by fax transmission and regular mail on April
25, 2003. I further state that I was advised by Robin W.
Marzella, Esquire, that she did/~d n~concur with the attached
Motion prior to its filing on the date set forth below.
~: M~~
, 2003
d~c~
Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire
Attorney for petitioner
127 S. Market Street
P.O. Box 95
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
717 - 697 - 7050
~~.
Andrew c. Sheely, Esquire
127 S. Market Street
P.O. Box 95
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
PA ID NO. 62469
717-697-7050 (Phone)
717-697-7065 (Fax)
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE,
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000--2020 CIVIL TERM
:
vs.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC. ,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF CONCURRENCE OR NON-CONCURRENCE
I, Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire, hereby certify that I served a
copy of the attached petition for Special Relief upon Peter J.
Curry, Esquire, by fax transmission and regular mail on April 25,
2003. I further state that I was advised by Peter J. Curry,
Esquire, that he @did not concur with the attached Motion
prior to its filing on the date set forth below.
Date: (lA, 2-0
, 2003
I/-vWC
Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire
Attorney for Petitioner
127 S. Market Street
P.O. Box 95
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
717 - 697 - 7050
. ".li"Wl
Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire
127 S. Market Street
P.O. Box 95
Meohaniosburg, PA 17055
PA ID NO. 62469
717-697-7050 (Phone)
717-697-7065 (Fax)
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE,
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000--2020 CIVIL TERM
vs.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, :
INC. ,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF CONCURRENCE OR NON-CONCURRENCE
I, Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire, hereby certify that I served a
copy of the attached Petition for Special Relief upon Andrew H.
Dowling, Esquire, by fax transmission and regular mail on April
25, 2003. I further state that I was advised by Andrew H.
Dowling, Esquire, that he~ did not concur with the attached
Motion prior to its filing on the date set forth below.
Date: III cy Zb
, 2003
;tctJ c?5lS3
Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire
Attorney for petitioner
127 S. Market Street
P.O. Box 95
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
717 - 697 - 7050
"
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE,
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 2000--2020 CIVIL TERM
.
.
vs.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES',
INC. ,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
MOTION FOR PROTECTIVE ORDER
IN RE: SUBPOENA REQUEST FOR PRODUCTION
OF DOCUMENTS SERVED UPON CHIEF OF POLICE,
BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND
TO THE HONORABLE, JUDGES OF SAID COURT:
Andrew C. Sheely, Solicitor for the Borough of New
Cumberland, hereby files this Motion for a protective Order with
reference to a subpoena and request for production of documents
issued to the above-referenced Police Department in the above
captioned matter by Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D., and re-
spectfully states as follows:
1. Petitioner is the Borough of New Cumberland, a municipal
corporation and Employer of the New Cumberland Borough Police
Department.
2. Respondent is George E. Edwards, M.D., Defendant in the
above-captioned matter.
3. On or about February 15, 2002, the Chief of Police of the
Borough of New Cumberland received a subpoena to produce docu-
ments. A copy of the subpoena is attached hereto as Exhibit "An.
4. The subpoena issued to the Chief of Police of the Borough
-.,11'
of New Cumberland directed him to produce certain Udocuments or
thingsU to the office of counsel representing the defendant in the
above-captioned matter.
5. The subpoena seeks items obtained and gathered during a
police investigation in 1998, including but not limited to the
complete police file, statements made by the victim and defendant,
copies of tape recordings and transcripts of consensual wires worn
by the alleged victim.
6. The Borough of New Cumberland Police Department is not a
party to the above captioned action.
7. The Borough of New Cumberland Police Department is a non-
commonwealth agency pursuant to the Right to Know Law, Act of
June 29, 2002, (effective 180 days), House Bill 2100, as amended,
65 P.S. Section 66.1 et. seq.
8. In accordance with 65 P.S. Section 66.1 et. sea., the
Borough of New Cumberland is required to make available for public
inspection and review upublic recordsU as defined by the statute.
9. In accordance with 65 P.S. Section 66.1 upublic recordsu
shall not mean any renort. communication or other naDer, the
Dublication of which would disclose the institution. nroaress or
result of an investiaation undertaken bv an aaencv in the nerfor-
mance of its official duties. except those reDorts filed bv aaen-
cies nertainina to safety and health in industrial nlants: it
shall not include any record. document. material. exhibit. Dlead-
ina. reDort. memorandum or other naDer. access to or the Dublica-
tion of which is Drohibited. restricted or forbidden bv statute
law or order or decree of court. or which would oDerate to the
nre;udice or imnairment of a Derson's renutation or nersonal
security. or which would result in the loss bv the Commonwealth or
any of its Dolitical subdivisions or commissions or State or
municiDal authorities of Federal funds, exceDtina therefrom howev-
2
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-
er the record of anv conviction for anv criminal act.
10. The Borough of New Cumberland desires to fully cooperate
with the attached subpoena, subject to the limitations of 65 P.S.
Section 66.1 et. seo.
11. A protective Order is necessary to limit the information
sought in the subpoena and request for production of documents so
as to protect the Borough of New Cumberland from inadvertently
disclosing non-public records, without leave of Court.
12. The Borough of New Cumberland, through its Solicitor,
Andrew C. Sheely, has notified counsel for Defendant of the issues
raised in this motion in advance of its filing.
WHEREFORE, Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire, Solicitor for the
Borough New Cumberland, respectfully requests that this Honorable
enter an appropriate Protective Order so as to safeguard the
Borough of New Cumberland and to allow for the production of all
public records which are not privileged or excluded in accordance
with the Right to Know Law, as amended, 65 P.S. Section 66.1 et.
~
May U , 2003
Respectfully submitted,
An~Q1Y~
Solicitor, Borough of New
Cumberland
127 South Market Street
P.O. Box 95
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
(717) 697-7050
(717) 697-7065 (fax)
3
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VERIFICATION
I, Gren H. Kauffman, III, Chief of Police of the Borough of
New Cumberland, verify that the statements made in the foregoing
Motion for a protective order are true and correct to the best of
my knowledge, information and belief.
Date: April'~, 2003
Oren P~ft~hief
Borough of New Cumberland
of Police
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EXHIBIT "A"
,."'~~""
BARBARA O. STRUPE; ancl
JAMES G. STI~:UPE, .11'<."
HUSBAND AND WIFE;
PlsllntitTil
: IN Tl-tE CClURT OF CClMMON PLEAS
; CUMBI::RLAND COlJI\ITY, PENNSYLVA.hll,l\
: NO. :2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
VS'
GEORGE E. Et)WARDS, M.D. alnd
FAMILY PH'YSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
ING.
Dt~fendlilnt$
: JURYliRIJlIL DE/,IANClED
SUBPOENA rc, PRc:mUCE I)()CUMI:NTS C R THINGS
F12R OUi;CO'I~' 1!~~~~t.I!;!' RULE 4009.22
TO: Qhief ~)JPOIiC6. N~;;.um!)erlc\D!1.poli(~.Q!llUlrtment. jj20 Market Street. Njt~li~
Q.lJ.ml;!!u!i3nd. PAfl.QZ!L.__.__
. (Namll of Pen,on (Ir Entlly)
Wllhln twenty (20:, ,jays aftill' serville of this sutlpoena, you ~Ire o'rQlilred 't'y Ihe oourt to proQuoa tht'
follcwlng doournenl;S or things: ,gQJ!~l.Wllill&:flW.gojjglDJ!1on1Nealth \. Gltorae e. E~ward.. c;>rl......_.
sbii'aas of jndE~~'ol assauIIJ~l~!~!:...:lltib!l1.i!lY..!n!j all stahmElnts. InclUding bul nal !!D:..!~~
!sJ:1\ Plalntlff,I~Il:bara S\rUIl~!~\aln\\ft...Jj\!Jl!l.L~lll.:.ili!:LQr. Little: (illQL.. Ge9raEl Edltlardsj (,l!l,iUl.lL.
~olovees of c.if.nlrV Physi.!il!c!.l!~~.J.!lQ..a ool~.Qf1l'l!.laoe reC4lrlil!m and transcrltlts of aln:.Y:!llll
~lfdl(l9 con"~O:!hlg IDe CClllUlml~I~!II..blI_~tal1ilWl)e In De ~", 1998. _....__
You are requlrEld Ie, Ilrodue'31j Ihe6,<I recDrds to: Andrew H. [)awllng, Esq. METTE, EVANS & wocmmDE
at. 3401 Northli.Qnl Streel:..!:!1r.r.Iliburo,.fA.:!1!.1!:L-..__. _....__
(Address)
Yo~ fllay dellvElr or ml'lillagltlle ool:lle5 elf Ihe documenls In produoe thin,s requesled by Ihi5 5ubpne:I<I,
10gEllher with thE: ,:lClrliliclllle elf call'lpllamle, to 1M" Ilarty making Ihl5 reqUE sl al the address IIsled abol, I~.
YOI) hilve the rlgh'~ to seek, III advllnce. the Ills:;,onable C()sl of preparing the copies or proQUClnglhe
thlnl~s sought.
If YClu fall 10 prclcluce Ihe documents or things ruqUlred by Ihl:s subpaana, within twenly (20) days aflel' iut
ser\'lce, the parly ilervlng thb, subl:.allnll may sHek a cc.urt order compellng you 10 comply with It.
THIS SUBPOEW', WASIS:.'!JI:D ,lIT THE RE:CI.JeST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
NaOla: AI\l!;!l:~:W H. D!;l.Wl.lt!~,QUIB.!L
Address:--...M5:JJ:l' EVAN:~~;!QQ.:i~_._
--M~l.!IORTH I:J~: sn:EET _._
-.l::U~!J:~ISBVRCl.f~J.IllQ..__._
TelElphone:...J.Z1ZL232-o00Q_.___._
Supreme Court ICI#: 39BlliL-.___._
ATTORNEY FOI~:_ Defe!ll!!!nW;Wmill.s...~I~tL!loi.Q,
DATE' ~' ~,.' :)/1""2
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~ie of Ihe COUl':
11 Division)
:~d l"tHl;: : n l;:00;~ 90 . ,.l'~~J
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire, hereby certify that I am this
day serving the foregoing praecipe for Entry of Appearance upon
the following named individual this day by depositing same in the
United States Mail, First Class, postage prepaid, at Carlisle,
Pennsylvania, addressed as follows:
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, FA 17110-0950
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER
305 N. Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Date: May 21, 2003
/ht/f7~
Andrew C. Sheely, Esquire
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband
and wife,
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
vs.
00-2020 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.,
and F AMlL Y PHYSICIAN
ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendant
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
IN RE: DEFENDANT'S MOTION TO COMPEL
ORDER
AND NOW, this Z"J . day of May, 2003, the motion of the defendant to compel
authorization of release of mental health records is GRANTED to the extent that in the event
such authorization is not forthcoming within sixty (60) days, the plaintiff shall thereafter be
barred from any claim for psychological or psychiatric damages necessitating any psychological
counseling or other medical treatment.
BY THE COURT,
. Robin J. M~~ella, Esquire
,4i' For the Plamtlffs
indrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Peter 1. Curry, Esquire
,/ For the Defendants
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Penusylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robiu J. Marzella, Esquire
Peuusylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-6883
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
16 Campbell Place
Camp Hill, PA 17011,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DOCKET NO. OJ -:J~ (I~
Plaintiffs
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
117 Westover Drive
New Cumberland, P A 17070
and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
1900 Bridge Street
New Cumberland, P A 17070,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE FOR WRIT OF SUMMONS
TO THE PROTHONOTARY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY:
Please issue a Writ of Sununons against the following Defendants and direct the
Sheriff of Cumberland County to make service upon the Defendants at their last known
addresses:
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George E. Edwards, M.D.
117 Westover Drive
New Cumberland, Cumberland County, PA 17070
and
Family Physician Associates, Inc.
1900 Bridge Street
New Cumberland, Cumberland County, PA 17070
Respectfully requested,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.c.
Dated: March 30. 2000
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Commonwealth 'of Pennsylvania
County of Cumberland
Barbara o. StIUpe and
James G. Strupe, Jr., husband and wife
16 Campbell Place
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Court of Common Pleas
VI.
No. n_____2000~202Q.-Civ:i1_------uu- 19__n
George E. Edwards, M.D.
117 Westover Drive In __n___-Ci~.i:L-ActioI'l_~nLaw.__n___________
New Cumberland, PA 17070
and
Family Physician Associates, Inc.
1900 Bridge Street
New Cumberland, PA 17070
To ____~.E~_~_.n~~~~L}i~Q..__i?!l9..X~!Y Physician Associates, Inc.
You are hereby notified that
___m __1?9~~~? _<2, _?!.'0.:lp<=__~g_ _~~~_ G~ _ _~t=El!P<=-,__.;! !'-"_'_ _l1Y_~~9.._~9_.0:~~__ __ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ ____
the Plaintiff s ha vecommenced an action in ___.ciyiLAQtiQn_,::_~Jl."'_u__________u______________n
against you which you are required to defend or a default judgment may be entered against you.
(SEAL)
Curtis R. Long
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I>ate ___~j13.-.200!l_____________ ~___
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SHERIFF'S RETURN - REGULAR
CASE NO: 2000-02020 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
STRUPE BARBARA 0 ET AL
VS
EDWARDS GEORGE E MD ET AL
SHAWN HARRISON
, Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff of
Cumberland County, Pensyl vania , who being duly sworn according to law,
says, the within WRIT OF SUMMONS
was served upon
EDWARDS GEORGE E M D
the
, at 0010:16 HOURS, on the 10th day of April
, 2000
DEFENDANT
at 1900 BRIDGE ST
NEW CUMBERLAND, PA 17070
by handing to
GEORGE EDWARD
a true and attested copy of WRIT OF SUMMONS
together with
and at the same time directing His attention to the contents thereof.
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing
Service
Affidavit
Surcharge
18.00
10.54
.00
10.00
.00
38.54
So A;;~~:
R. Thomas Kline
04/12/2000
R. J. MARZEL
-
Sworn and Subscribed to before By:
me this /'1 ~ day of
~ ~/J-Ov A.D.
n r2.~
~~onotary .~
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-
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SHERIFF'S RETURN - REGULAR
CASE NO: 2000-02020 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
STRUPE BARBARA 0 ET AL
VS
EDWARDS GEORGE E MD ET AL
SHAWN HARRISON
, Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff of
Cumberland County, Pensylvania, who being duly sworn according to law,
says, the within WRIT OF SUMMONS
was served upon
B\MILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES INC
the
, at 0010:16 HOURS, on the lOth day of April
2000
DEFENDANT
at 1900 BRIDGE ST
NEW CUMBERLAND, PA 17070
by handing to
EDEE HARRIGAN (PRACTICE MANG)
a true and attested copy of WRIT OF SUMMONS
together with
and at the same time directing Her attention to the contents thereof.
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing
Service
Affidavit
Surcharge
6.00
.00
.00
10.00
.00
16.00
So Answers:
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R. Thomas Kline
04/12/2000
R. J. MARZELLA
Sworn and Subscribed to before
By:
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me this 1'1-
day of
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rothonotary
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
By: Peter J. Curry, Esquire
IdentifICation No. 16622
305 North Front Street
P. O. Box 999
Harrisburg, PA 17108
(717) 255-7637
Attorney for Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc.
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband
and wife,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
v.
DOCKET NO. 2000-2020 Civil Term
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D., and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter my appearance for Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc., in the
above-captioned matter.
Respectfully submitted,
RJ. CURRY
Attorney for De
Associates, In .
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
,
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE FOR ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
Please enter my appearance on behalf of Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D.
in the above-captioned matter.
DATED: May 4, 2000
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Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
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BY:
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court I.D. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, P A 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 4th day of May, 2000, I hereby certify that I am serving a copy of
the foregoing document upon the person(s) and in the manner indicated below, which
service satisfies the requirements of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure, by
depositing a copy of the same in the United States Mail, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with
first-class postage prepaid, as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
BY:
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court I.D. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E, Edwards, M.D.
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DATED: May 4, 2000
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717)234-7828
Facsimile: (717\ 234-6883
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF A SUBPOENA
PURSUANT TO Pa.R.C.P. 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to
Pa.R.C.P. 4009.22, Plaintiffs certify that:
(1) the notice of intent to serve a subpoena, with a copy of the subpoena
attached thereto, was mailed or delivered to each party on June 2, 2000;
(2) a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena attached to
the notice of intent, is attached to this certificate;
(3) no objection to the subpoena has been received, and
(4) the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is
attached to the notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
Dated: 7-(3~~
BY:~~
f?s. Barn , Esquire
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Snpreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-611113
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA 0" STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE A SUBPOENA TO
PRODUCE DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY
PURSUANT TO Pa.R.C.P. 4009.21
TO: George E. Edwards, M.D.
c/o Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Family Physician Associates, Iue.
c/o Peter J. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
305 North Front Street, 6th Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, P A 17108
Plaintiffs, Barbara O. Strupe and Jaroes G. Strupe, Jr., intend to serve a subpoena identical to the
one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date stated below in which to file of
record and serve upon the undersigned an objection to the subpoena. If no objection is made, the subpoena
may be served.
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.e.
,
Dated: 01~b(I7J()
By:
".
R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-611113
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: New Cumberland Boroul!:h Police Department
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the
Court to produce the following documents or tiJings:
I. All documents pertaining to the investigation performed by the New
Cumberland Borough Police Department regarding the matter Commonwealth v. GeorlJe
E. Edwards. MD. The documents requested include, but are not limited to, all reports,
statements, notes, memos, and transcripts, in whatever form, whether written or unwritten,
including documents memorialized in any type of electronic form such as disk or tape.
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things
requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making
this request at the address listed bdow. You have the right to seek in advance the
reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought.
MAY 3 1 21100
c-3!
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena within
twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order
compelling you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING
PERSON:
Jan S. Barnett, Esquire; Supreme Court ID No. 66122
RJ. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, P A 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Attorney for Jim G. and Barbara D. Strupe
BY THE COURT:
Curtis R. Long, Prothonotary
DATE: fY2';;:J'lf ~() ;::;lC:VO
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned HEREBY CERTIFIES that true and correct copies of the
foregoing document was served upon all counsel of record this /3-f1... day of
, 2000, by depositing said copy in the United States Mail at
'sburg, Pennsylvania, postage prepaid, first class delivery, and addressed as follows:
Peter 1. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFE~ LLP
305 North Front Street
Sixth Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, PAl 7108
Counsel for Family Physician Associates, Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Counselfor George E. Edwards, MD.
R. 1. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BYFt~.
1 . Barnett
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-611113
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. arrd
FAMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE TO DEFEND
NOTICE
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend against the claims
set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this
Complaint and Notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by
attorney and filing in writing with the Court your defense or objections to the claims set
forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without
you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any
money claimed in the Complaint or for any claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You
may lose money or property or other rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU
DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE
THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL
HELP.
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Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, Pennsylvania
(717) 249-3166
I
NOTICIA
Le han demandado a usted en la corte. Si usted guiere defenderse de estas
demandas expuestas en las paginas siguintes, usted tiene viente (20) dias de plaza al partir
de la fecha de la demanda y la nontificacion. Usted debe presentar una apariencia escrita 0
en persona 0 por abogado y archivar en la corte en forma escrita sus defensas 0 sus
objectiones alas demandas en contra de su p esona. Sea avisado que si usted no se
defiende, la corte tomara medidas y puede entrar una orden contra usted sin previo aviso 0
notificacion y por cualquier queja 0 alivio que es pedido en la peticion de demanda. Usted
pueda perder dinero 0 sus propiedades 0 otros derechos importantes para usted.
LLEVE ESTA DEMAND), A UN ABODAGO INMEDIATAMENTA. SI NO
TIENE ABOGADO 0 SI NO TIENE EL DINERO SUFICIENTE DE PAGAR TAL
SERVICIO, VA Y A EN PERSONA 0 LLAME POR TELEFONO A LA LFICINA CUY A
DIRECCION SE ENCUENTRA ESCRIT A ABAJO PARA A VERIGUAR DONDE SE
PEUDE CONSEGUIR ASISTENCIA LEGAL.
Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, Pennsylvania
(717) 249-3166
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.c.
Dated:
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.c.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Cilurt I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-61183
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
COMPLAINT
Parties to the Action
I. Plaintiffs Barbara O. Strope and James G. Strupe, Jr., husband and wife, are
adult individuals, sui juris, residing at 16 Campbell Place, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011.
2. Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D., is a physician duly licensed to
practice medicine in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with a residence address of 117
Westover Drive, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania 17070.
3. Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc. ("FPA"), is a healthcare
facility duly organized and existing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
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with a principle place of business at 1900 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania
17070.
Summarv of the Causes of Action
4. On November 10, 1998, Dr. Edwards was employed by Defendant FP A as a
family physician.
5. On November 10, 1998, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe was a patient of
Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D., and had been a patient ofFPA for approximately ten
years.
6. Over the previous approximate ten years, Defendant Dr. Edwards had
provided gynecological care to Plaintiff Barbara Strupe, including pelvic and breast exams
7. On November 10, 1998, Mrs. Strupe had an appointment with Dr. Edwards
for complaints related to a sinus infection.
8. Dr. Edwards' examination and treatment of Mrs. Strope on November 10,
1998, occurred behind closed doors with no one else present besides Dr. Edwards and Mrs.
Strope.
9. Following Dr. Edwards' examination of Mrs. Strupe on November 10,
1998, he asked Mrs. Strupe for a "hug."
10. As a courtesy because of their longstanding professional relationship, Mrs.
Strupe complied with Dr. Edwards' request for a "hug."
II. While Dr. Edwards was "hugging" Mrs. Strope, he reached out and grabbed
her breast, squeezing it several times before Mrs. Strupe was able to pull away from him.
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12. Immediately before or during the time that he was squeezing Mrs. Strupe's
breast, Dr. Edwards stated to her, "You are all mine," or something similar.
13. At the time of his conduct as described above, Dr. Edwards knew or should
have known of Mrs. Strupe's fragile emotional state resulting from familial and/or
financial stressors she had been experiencing.
14. Dr. Edwards' conduct referenced in Paragraphs 9, 11 and 12 constitutes
intentional conduct.
15. Dr. Edwards' conduct referenced in Paragraphs 9,11 and 12 constitutes an
assault and battery on the person of Mrs. Strope.
16. At no time did Plaintiff Barbara Strope consent to the offensive touching
referenced above.
17. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
Paragraph, to the extent Mrs. Strope consented to the "hug," the consent went no further
and specifically did not excuse further offensive touching by Dr. Edwards, including his
grabbing her breast.
18. As a result of his conduct on November 10, 1998, Dr. Edwards pleaded
guilty to the charge of Indecent Assault as a result of criminal proceedings brought against
him in Cumberland County, Docket No. 99-0193. (The transcript of the guilty plea is
attached hereto as Exhibit A.)
19. As described more fully below, Defendant Dr. Edwards' conduct was
reckless, wanton and intentional, warranting the award of punitive damages.
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20. As described more fully below, Defendant FP A was negligent in its
supervision and/or hiring of Dr. Edwards, and was negligent in supervising other members
of its staff, who were available or should have been available to be present in rooms during
examinations offemale patients by male physicians.
21. Upon information and belief, Defendant FP A knew or had reason to know
of Dr. Edwards' propensity to sexually batter its patients, and generally knew or had
reason to know of the risk of male employees sexually battering its patients.
22. Also as described more fully below, Defendant FPA was negligent in not
implementing policies and procedures, or enforcing those already in place, to prevent or
curtail such offensive touching as that committed by Dr. Edwards.
23. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
above and in greater detail below, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe has suffered immediate and
substantial physical and mental harm, including severe emotional distress, headaches,
insomnia, tremors, anxiety and other psychological and emotional harm, requiring
psychological counseling and other medical treatment --past present and future, for all of
which damages are claimed.
24. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
above and in greater detail below, Plaintiffs have incurred medical expenses-past, present
and future, for all of which damages are claimed.
25. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
above and in greater detail below, Mrs. Strupe has suffered lost earnings, a lost earning
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capacity, embarrassment and humiliation, and lost enjoyment oflife, which losses may
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26. The conduct of Defendants increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries described to Plaintiffs.
27. The Defendants are jointly and severally liable for the harms, injuries, and
damages sustained by the Plaintiffs.
COUNT I
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Assault
28. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
29. At the time of his conduct, Dr. Edwards knew or reasonably should have
known that his conduct would put Mrs. Strupe in reasonable and immediate apprehension
of a harmful or offensive contact with his body, and such apprehension was in fact caused.
30. The conduct of Dr. Edwards as described above was intentional and
reckless, conducted in complete disregard of a risk of harm to Mrs. Strupe which he knew
or should have known to be highly probable, and with a conscious indifference to the
consequences.
31. As a direct and proximate result of Dr. Edward's conduct, Plaintiffs have
suffered the injuries and harms described above in Paragraphs 23-25, for all of which
damages are claimed.
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WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT II
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Battery
32. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1- 27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
33. At the time of Dr. Edwards' conduct as described above, Defendant acted
with an intent to cause a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe, and his
conduct in fact resulted in a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe.
34. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
Paragraph, Dr. Edwards acted with an intent to put Mrs. Strupe in reasonable and
immediate apprehension of a harmful or offensive contact with his body, and his conduct
in fact resulted in a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe.
35. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, and the harmful or offensive contact actually
resulting to the body of Mrs. Strupe, would offend a reasonable person's personal sense of
dignity.
36. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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37. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT III
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
38. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as iffully set forth.
39. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, as described above, goes beyond all possible
bounds of decency and is such as would be regarded as atrocious and utterly intolerable in
a civilized community.
40. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, as described above, was extreme and
outrageous, and intentionally or recklessly caused severe emotional distress, other highly
unpleasant mental reactions, and immediate and substantial bodily harm resulting from
severe emotional distress to Mrs. Strupe.
41. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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42. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT IV
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Negligent Infliction IIfEmotional Distress
43. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
44. As her family physician, Dr. Edwards had a fiduciary duty toward his
patient, Barbara Strupe.
45. As described above, the conduct of Dr. Edwards caused Mrs. Strupe to
suffer a physical impact.
46. At the time of Dr. Edwards' conduct as described above, Mrs. Strupe was in
a zone of danger and at risk of an immediate physical and emotional injury.
47. As a direct and proximate result of Dr. Edward's conduct, Plaintiff Barbara
Strupe indeed suffered immediate and substantial physical harm, as alleged above.
48. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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49. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT V
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. vs; GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Loss of Consortium
50. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-49 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set furth.
51. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of the Defendant, George E.
Edwards, M.D., as described above, Plaintiff James G. Strupe, Jr. has been deprived of the
care, companionship and services of his wife, Barbara O. Strupe, for all of which damages
are claimed.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT VI
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
Vicarious Liability
52. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-49 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
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53. Dr. Edwards had long been employed by Defendant FPA and in that
capacity acted as Mrs. Strupe's family physician, and had gained her trust and friendship in
that connection.
54. Dr. Edwards' employment with FPA permitted him opportunities for
personal and physical contact with Mrs. Strupe.
55. Dr. Edwards' close physical contact with Mrs. Strupe and other patients was
not only necessary for the nature of his employment with FP A, but it was encouraged as
well by FP A.
56. Whether expressly condoned or not by FP A, Dr. Edwards and other
healthcare employees at the practice were encouraged or permitted to initiate friendly,
close and personal contact with patients.
57. Such friendly, close and personal relationships between the healthcare
employees, including Dr. Edwards, and patients of FP A would facilitate the exchange of
information between physician and patient, thus benefiting the physician-patient
relationship.
58. The nature and scope of Dr. Edward's employment with FPA, thus included
the cultivation of friendly, close and personal relationships with his patients.
59. Dr. Edwards' close physical contact with Mrs. Strupe and his sexual assault
and battery of her thus may have been actuated by a purpose of serving his employer.
60. In the event Dr. Edwards' sexual assault and battery of Mrs. Strupe was
actuated by a purpose of serving his employer, then FP A is vicariously liable for the
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conduct of Dr. Edwards, which conduct occurred within the nature and scope of his
employment with FP A, and the harm and damages caused to the Plaintiffs.
61. Furthermore, Dr. Edwards' conduct may have been foreseeable by FPA, by
either its knowledge or reason to know of Dr. Edwards' propensity to sexually harass,
assault or batter its patients.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of$25,OOO, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT VII
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Negligence
62. The allegations contained in Paragraph 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
63. At the relevant times stated in this Complaint, Barbara Strupe was receiving
medical care and treatment from F?A and Dr. Edwards, who was FPA's actual or
ostensible agent, servant, and/or employee.
64. Upon information and belief, FP A knew or should have known of previous
incidents of inappropriate sexual conduct or contact by Dr. Edwards with patients other
than Barbara Strupe.
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65. Upon information and belief, previous incidents of inappropriate sexual
conduct or contact by Dr. Edwards had been reported to or known of by employees and/or
managerial staff of FP A.
66. Upon information and belief, Dr. Edwards and other male healthcare
providers at FP A were permitted to see and/or examine female patients in their offices or
in examination rooms without the presence of a third party, and were able to do so behind
closed doors.
67. Upon information and belief, there was no policy in place at FP A to prevent
conduct such as that engaged in by Dr. Edwards and as described above.
68. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
Paragraph of this Complaint, to the extent such a policy or program existed, it was not
enforced or followed.
69. Defendant FP A had a duty to prevent harm to its patients such as that
experienced by Barbara Strupe, and a duty to control and oversee its staff and employees to
prevent conduct such as that committed by Dr. Edwards--detailed above, and was negligent
in the following particulars:
(a) failing to take appropriate steps to prevent additional incidents of
sexual assault, battery, harassment or other sexually inappropriate conduct by Dr.
Edwards when FP A knew or had reason to know of previous incidents involving
such conduct by Dr. Edwards;
(b) permitting Dr. Edwards to continue seeing patients, particularly
female patients, on its premises when it knew or had reason to know of previous
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(i) failing to appropriately supervise and/or control its staff and
employees to ensure that sexual harassment, assault or battery of its patients did not
occur.
70. Dr. Edwards' reprehensible conduct occurred upon premises in possession
ofFPA, and upon which Dr. Edwards was privileged to enter only as its servant, and FPA
knew or had reason to know of its ability to control its servant, and knew or should have
known of the necessity and opportunity for exercising that control.
71. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
72. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
73. In light of its knowledge or reason to know of previous incidents of sexual
assault, battery, harassment or other inappropriate sexual conduct of Dr. Edwards directed
towards its patients, FP A's conduct described above was outrageous and its actions or
failure to act were done with a reckless disregard for the welfare and safety of its patients,
including Barbara Strope.
74. In light of its knowledge or reason to know of previous incidents of sexual
assault, battery, harassment or other inappropriate sexual conduct of Dr. Edwards directed
towards its patients, Dr. Edwards' conduct alleged above was foreseeable to FPA.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
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excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT VIII
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress
75. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27,62-74 of Plaintiffs'
Complaint are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
76. As the provider of her family healthcare needs, FPA had a special
relationship with, and a fiduciary duty toward its patient, Barbara Strupe.
77. As described above, the conduct of FP A caused Mrs. Strupe to suffer a
physical impact in the nature of the offensive touching committed by Dr. Edwards,
resulting in immediate and significant physical and mental harm.
78. At the time ofFPA's conduct detailed above, Mrs. Strupe was in a zone of
danger and at risk of an immediate physical and emotional injury.
79. As a direct and proximate result of FPA's conduct, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe
indeed suffered immediate and substantial physical harm, as alleged above.
80. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
81. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
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WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT IX
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
Loss of Consortium
82. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27,62-81 of Plaintiffs'
Complaint are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
83. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of the Defendant, FP A, as
described above, Plaintiff James G. Strupe, Jr. has been deprived of the care,
companionship and services of his wife, Barbara O. Strupe, for all of which damages are
claimed.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
By:
R
tt ey Identification No. 66856
J S. Barnett, Esquire
Attorney Identification No. 66122
Dated: (] ~ t/jrJ-1J7.JD
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EXHIBIT A
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COMMONWEALTH
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
99-0193 CRIMINAL TERM
CHARGE: INDECENT ASSAULT
GEORGE E. EDWARDS
OTN: F311442-5
AFFIANT: PTL. JOSEPH SPADACCINO
IN RE: GUILTY PLEA & SENTENCING PROCEEDINGS
Proceedings held before the
HONORABLE KEVIN A. HESS, J.,
Cumberland County Courthouse,
Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on
Thursday, March 4, 1999,
in Courtroom Number 4.
APPEARANCES:
MICHAEL SCHWOYER, Esquire
Assistant District Attorney
For the Commonwealth
ANDREW DOWLING, Esquire
For the Defendant
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MR. SCHWOYER: Good afternoon, Your Honor.
2
MR. DOWLING: Good afternoon.
3
THE COURT: Good afternoon.
4
MR. SCHWOYER: This case is Commonwealth
5, versus George E. Edwards, docketed in the Clerks office at
6 99-0193 Criminal Term. The defendant, George Edwards, is
7 charged with one count of Indecent Assault, a misdemeanor
E of the second degree. That offense carrying a maximum term
9 of imprisonment of two years and a maximum fine of
10 $5,000.00.
11 It is my understanding here today in court,
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Your Honor, the defendant intends to waive the filing of
13 criminal Informations in this case, waive formal
14 arraignment, enter a plea of guilty as charged. And the
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defendant intends to waive a pre-sentence investigation
16 report and request immediate sentence. The Commonwealth
17 does not oppose any of that.
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THE COURT: That is correct, Mr. Dowling?
19
MR. DOWLING: Yes, Your Honor.
I understand
20 we have a plea for probation agreement.
21
THE COURT: Dr. Edwards, you are charged
22 with a count of Indecent Assault -- is that the
23 denomination of the offense?
24
MR. SCHWOYER: Yes, Your Honor.
25
THE COURT: As such you are presumed
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1 innocent of this charge. The burden of proving your guilt
:2 is on the Commonwealth. They would have to establish your
3
guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at a proceeding at which
'1
you could have this matter heard by a jury if you chose.
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Do you understand that?
6
THE DEFENDANT: Yes.
7
THE COURT: You would be involved in the
13 selection of the jury to hear the case with the assistance
9 of your attorney. And after hearing all of the evidence
10 and anything that you had to say, if you chose to say it,
11 all twelve jurors would have to agree before they could
1:2 convict you. Do you understand that?
13
THE DEFENDANT: Yes.
1'1
THE COURT: The District Attorney will
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shortly recite the facts of the case. Do you understand
16 that by entering this plea of guilty you are going to be
17 admitting the statements that he is about to make? Do you
113 understand that?
19
THE DEFENDANT: Yes, sir.
20
THE COURT: Go ahead, Mr. Schwoyer.
2 ~I
MR. SCHWOYER: Your Honor, the facts in
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support of this plea are that on November the 10th, 1998,
23
Barbara Stroup was a patient of -- had an appointment with
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her family physician, Dr. Edwards, in the Borough of New
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1 clothed, the defendant was retiring, gave Ms. Stroup a hug.
2 Following that hug he touched her breasts, without her
3 consent, with his hand, for the purpose of his and/or her
4 sexual gratification.
5 THE COURT: Do you have any questions about
6 the nature of the admission in this case?
7
8
THE DEFENDANT: No, sir.
THE COURT: All right. What is the proposed
9 disposition?
10 MR. SCHWOYER: The proposed disposition,
11 Your Honor, is the District Attorney is recommending to the
12 Court that the Court impose a sentence in the standard
13 range. That will be a probationary sentence. . The
14 Commonwealth is requesting that the Court consider imposing
15 a fine in this case. And the defendant and the
16 Commonwealth have agreed on a figure for restitution. The
17 defendant specifically does not acknowledge a causal
18 relationship between the finances that I will discuss to
19 the Court in a moment and the act. But by way of agreement
20 and resolving this matter here in court today the defendant
21 has agreed to pay a total of $2,580.40. $2,228.16 to Blue
22 Cross and Blue Shield, and $352.24 to Ms. Stroup. The Blue
23 Cross and Blue Shield amount represents approximately
24 one-half of bills that we have received to date. And
25 that's for reasons we discussed in chambers prior to coming
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into open court today.
The 352.24 represent the victim's
2 share of medication up through today. And we agree that it
3 ends today. The $35.00 she paid for the doctor's visit the
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day of the incident and $130.00 which she incurred as a
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result of having to find a new physician.
6
THE COURT: I didntt write down the number
7 to Blue Cross and Blue Shield, but I assume it is the
EI remainder of 2580.40 minus 352.24?
9
MR. SCHWOYER: Thatts correct.
HI
THE COURT: Okay.
11.
MR. SCHWOYER: Provided my math was correct.
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THE COURT: I am assuming.
All right. Mr.
13 Dowling, anything you want to add? I should note that I
1~, have read the correspondence from physicians John Stoner
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and Raymond Grandon. I have seen some correspondence, much
16 of which was forwarded to the defendant on the occasion of
17 his retirement. And I have also read and carefully
Hi considered the letter authored by Barbara Stroup, dated
19 February 21st, 1999. Is there anything you want to add?
20
MR. DOWLING: Yes, Your Honor. Dr. Edwards
21 is seventy-six years old, born in Hummelstown,
22 Pennsylvania, has lived here his whole life. He was in the
23 Navy from 1943 to 1985. Graduated from medical school in
24 1952. Interned at the Harrisburg Hospital. He has been in
25 private practice in New Cumberland ever since. He is now
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1 fully retired. As of January 1 of '99 his license has
2 lapsed. In fact, right before his retirement he was still
3 treating the very first patient he did in 1954.
4 I have given the Court some cards and
5 letters attesting to his character. Concerning the
6 restitution issue, I think the District Attorney accurately
7 outlined our agreement. The other option, of course, would
8 be is to get the record to determine the causal
9 relationship. I dontt think Dr. Edwards nor myself want to
10 put Barb Stroup through that. She has suffered emotional
11 trauma through a number of things that have happened to her
12 in the last year. So we are agreeing based on the
13 agreement that the DA outlined.
14 Dr. Edwards, would you like to address the
15 Court?
16 THE DEFENDANT: Yes, sir. Thank you for
17 this privilege, sir, to address the Court. I will be
18 brief. Mrs. Stroup has been a patient in our group
19 practice for approximately ten years. On her last visit to
20 see me my behavior was unbecoming. And I wish to apologize
21 with all my heart to her and hope she will forgive me.
22 My wife of forty-nine years, who is a very
23 quiet person, is completely aware of this incident. She is
24 equally embarrassed about the whole thing, but she stands
25 wholeheartedly behind me during this very emotional time in
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l. our marlO-iage.
2 Again, Mrs. Stroup, I offer my sincere
:I apologies. I have thoroughly enjoyed my forty-five years
4 of gene~al practice. I could have retired ten or twelve
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years ago, but I loved patient relationship in taking care
6 of thei~ physical and emotional ills. Thank you, sir.
7
THE COURT: All right. Anything further?
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MR. DOWLING: No, Your Honor.
9
THE COURT: The plea is accepted and
10 recorded. Sentence of the Court is that the defendant pay
11.
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the costs of prosecution, undergo probation with
supervision for a period of twelve months, that he pay a
fine of $750.00 to the use of the County of Cumberland, and
that he make restitution in the amount of $2,580.40,
$352.24 of which shall be payable to the victim, and the
remainder to Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
Payment of restitution in this case shall
not constitute an admission with respect to the causal
relationship between the defendantts act and the amount of
financial harm inflicted the victim.
Upon the payment of all sums herein due, and
provided that the Probation Office is otherwise satisfied
to do so, termination of probation supervision will be
authorized.
Anything else?
7
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MR. SCHWOYER: No, Your Honor. That's all.
2 THE COURT: I have a number of papers that
3 pertain to this case, perhaps you would like to make them
4 part of the file.
5
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8
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MR. SCHWOYER: Yes, sir.
(End of proceedings)
8
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CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the proceedings are
contained fully and accurately in the notes taken by me on
the abovecause and that this is a correct transcript of
same,
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Barbara E. Graham
Official Stenographer
The foregoing record of the proceedings on
the hearing of the within matter is hereby approved and
directed to be filed.
#
evin A. Hess, J.
Ninth Judicial District
Date
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COMMONWEALTH
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V
99-0193 CRIMINAL TERM
CHARGE: INDECENT ASSAULT
GEORGE E. EDWARDS
OTN: F311442-5
AFFIANT: PTL. JOSEPH SPADACCINO
IN RE: GUILTY PLEA & SENTENCING
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 4th day of March, 1999, the
defendant, George E. Edwards, having appeared in open court
together with private counsel, Andrew Dowling, Esquire, and
tendered a plea of guilty, the plea of guilty is accepted and
recorded,
Sentence of the court is that the defendant pay
the costs of prosecution, undergo probation with supervision for
a period of twelve months, that he pay a fine of $750.00 to the
use of the County of Cumberland, and that he make restitution in
the amount of $2,580.40; $352.24 of which shall be payable to
the victim, and the remainder to Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
Payment of restitution in this case shall not constitute an
admission with respect to the causal relationship between the
defendant's act and the amount of financial harm inflicted the
victim. Upon the payment of all sums herein due, and provided
that the Probation Office is otherwise satisfied to do so,
termination of probation supervision will be authorized.
By the Court,
K;1nYH1:~
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JUN 2 72110
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COMMONWEALTH V. GEORGE E. EDWARDS
Michael Schwoyer, Esquire
Assistant District Attorney
Andrew Dowling, Esquire
For the Defendant
Probation
Victim-Witness Office
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned HEREBY CERTIFIES that true and correct copies of the
foregoing document was served upon all counsel of record this ~ day of
~ ' 2000, by depositing said copy in the United States Mail at
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, postage prepaid, first class delivery, and addressed as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
305 North Front Street
Sixth Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, P A 17108
Counsel for Family Physician Associates, Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, P A 1711 0-0950
Counselfor George E. Edwards, MD.
R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
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FAYE A. SNYDER,
Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
DON R. SNYDER,
Defendant
NO. 00-2175 CIVIL TERM
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 15th day of August, 2000, upon consideration of Plaintiffs
praecipe to transmit record, and it appearing that the record does not contain a copy of the
notice of intention to file praecipe to transmit record or of a certificate of service relating
to such notice, a divorce decree will not be entered at this time, without prejudice to the
parties' rights to correct these deficiencies and file a new praecipe to transmit record.
BY THE COURT,
Diane G. Radcliff, Esq.
3448 Trind1e Road
CampHill,PA 17011 ~ ~ 'f_Jt..u!J
Attorney for Plaintiff
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-68113
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE
TO: Curtis R. Long, Prothonotary
Cumberland County Courthouse
"
I Courthouse Square
Carlisle, P A 17013
Please attach the enclosed Verification to the Plaintiffs' Complaint, filed on or
about August 14,2000.
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
Dated:
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. Barnett, Esquire
tomey Identification No. 66122
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VERIFICATION
We, Barbara O. Strupe and James G. Strupe, Jr., do hereby swear and affirm that
the facts and matters set forth in the foregoing document are true and correct to the best of
our knowledge, information and belief.
We understand that the statements made therein are made subject to the penalties
of 18 Pa. C.S. ~ 4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Dated:
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned HEREBY CERTIFIES that true and correct copIes of the
foregoing document was served upon all counsel of record this 16th
day of
August
, 2000, by depositing said copy in the United States Mail at
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, postage prepaid, first class delivery, and addressed as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
305 North Front Street
Sixth Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, P A 171 08
Counsel for Family Physician Associates, Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Counselfor George E. Edwards, MD.
R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
By rfrJ&d, -
J S arnett
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
OBJECTIONS OF DEFENDANT GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. TO
"PLAINTIFF'S INTERROGATORIES DIRECTED TO DEFENDANT
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. (Set #1)"
12. Objection. Overly broad, vague and burdensome. Seeks information that
is privileged, not relevant, not calculated to lead to discovery of admissible evidence
and otherwise non-discoverable. Without waiving the objection, no.
15.-18. Objection. Beyond the scope of discovery. Punitive damages are not
recoverable under the facts and circumstances of this case and, therefore, Defendant's
income, financial condition and net worth are not relevant in this trial. In addition, Pa.
R.C.P. 4003.7 prohibits discovery concerning the wealth of the Defendant in this
manner.
19. Objection. Overly broad, vague and burdensome. "The events of
November 10, 1998" are not defined. Without waiving the objection, see Answer with
New Matter of Defendant Dr. Edwards at Paragraphs 9, 11, 16,17.
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22. Objection. Overly broad, vague and burdensome.
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
~---- ';
BY:
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court I.D. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: August 31,2000
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 31st day of August, 2000, I hereby certify that I am serving a copy
of the foregoing document upon the person(s) and in the manner indicated below, which
service satisfies the requirements of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure, by
depositing a copy of the same in the United States Mail, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with
first-class postage prepaid, as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
~
BY:
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court 1.0. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: August 31, 2000
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER TO PLAINTIFFS'
COMPLAINT FILED BY DEFENDANT. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
AND NOW, comes Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D., through his attorney,
Mette, Evans and Woodside, and files this Answer With New Matter to Plaintiffs'
Complaint based on the following:
1. Admitted.
2. Denied. It is admitted that Dr. Edwards resides at 117 Westover Drive,
New Cumberland, PA 17070. The remaining averments are denied. In the Spring of
1998, Dr. Edwards was 76 years old and made a decision to fully retire from the
practice of medicine effective December 31, 1998. On December 31, 1998 Dr.
Edwards did in fact retire from the practice of medicine and thereafter never renewed or
attempted to renew his license to practice medicine.
3. Admitted.
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-
SUMMARY OF CAUSES OF ACTION
4. Admitted.
5. Denied as stated. On November 10,1998 Plaintiff Barbara Strupe was a
patient of Defendant, F.PA and was treated by Dr. Edwards.
6. Denied as stated. Over the previous approximately ten years, Defendant,
Dr. Edwards, performed a pelvic and breast exam on Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, on one
occasion. Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, over a ten year period was examined and treated
by other physicians at Defendant, F.PA
7. Admitted.
8. Admitted. By way of further answer, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe remained
fully clothed during the examination for a sinus infection.
9. Denied. Following Dr. Edwards' examination, Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe
asked Defendant, Dr. Edwards, for a hug since he was retiring.
10. Denied. See response to Paragraph 9.
11. Denied as stated. After Plaintiff Barbara Strupe hugged Dr. Edwards, he
put his hand on her breast while she was fully clothed placing his hand on the outside
of her clothing and then removed his hand. It is denied that Defendant, Dr. Edwards
squeezed her breast.
12. Denied. See response to No.9. By way of further answer, Defendant,
Dr. Edwards said "do you mind," to which Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe had no response.
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13. Denied. Defendant, Dr. Edwards, was aware that Plaintiff, Barbara
Strupe's son was involved in a fight at a bar involving a knife and there were multiple
jury trials and Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe was critical of the court system.
14. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 14 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required.
15. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 15 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required.
16. It is admitted that Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, did not consent to Dr. Edwards
placing his hand on her breast outside her clothing when she was fully dressed.
17. See response to Paragraph 16. By way of further answer, when Plaintiff
Barbara Strupe requested a hug, Defendant, Dr. Edwards, consented.
18. Admitted.
19. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 19 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegation is
denied.
20.-22. As these allegations are directed to Defendant, Family Practice
Associates, Inc., no response is required by Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D.
23.-25. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendant Dr. Edwards lacks
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of these averments;
the averments are therefore denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial. By
way of further answer, see New Matter at Paragraphs 91(a)-(I).
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26.-27. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 26 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegations are
denied.
COUNT I
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. ASSAULT
28. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
29.-31. The averments in Paragraphs 29 through 31 are legal conclusions to
which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegations
are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT /I
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARD. M.D. BATTERY
32. The response to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
33.-37. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 33 through 37 are legal
conclusions to which no answer is required. If it deemed that an answer is required the
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allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT III
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
INTENTIONAL INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
38. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of the Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
39.-42. The averments in Paragraphs 39 through 42 are legal conclusions to
which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required these
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT IV
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
NEGLIGENT INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
43. The responses to Paragraph 1 through 27 of the Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
44.-49. Denied. The averments in Paragraphs 44 through 49 are legal
conclusions to which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required
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the allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT V
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. v GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
50. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 49 of Plaintiff's Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
51. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 51 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required the allegations are
denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT VI
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
VICARIOUS LIABILITY
52.-61. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D., no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
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COUNT VII
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
NEGLIGENCE
62.-74. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
In his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT VIII
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
NEGLIGENT INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
75.-81. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
.,
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
In his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT IX
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
82.-83. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
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WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests
judgment in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with
prejudice.
NEW MA TIER
84. The Complaint fails to state a cause of action upon which relief can be
granted.
85. Count! of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
86. Count II of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
87. Count III of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
88. Count IV of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
89. Count V of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
90. The Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted for
punitive damages.
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91. Any alleged acts or omission of Defendant, Dr. Edwards, were not a
substantial cause or factor of the subject incident and/or did not result in the inuries
and/or losses alleged by the Plaintiffs.
92. The incident, injuries and/or damages alleged to have been sustained by
the Plaintiffs were not proximately caused by Defendant, Dr. Edwards.
93. It is believed and therefore averred that some or all of the damages
claimed by the Plaintiffs contained in Paragraphs 23, 24, 25 and 51 were the direct and
proximate result of events and circumstances other than the conduct of Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D., including but not limited to:
(a) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from at least a 10 year history of
anxiety and depression to which treatment has been ongoing.
(b) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, being the victim of a knife attack by her
.son in 1991.
(c) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from long term abuse by her
sons since 1989 and obtaining a Court Order in February,1999
barring Plaintiff Barbara Strupe's sons from her home.
(d) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, having financial problems.
(e) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from medical problems.
(f) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, sustaining physical abuse by her
ex-husband
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(g) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, experiencing severe stress at her place of
employment.
(h) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, having long term insomnia.
(i) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, "feeling violated" by the media in 1997
and 1998 due to press coverage of three jury trials involving one of
her sons where her family was betrayed negatively concerning
racial issues surrounding the trials. In addition, the Plaintiff,
Barbara Strupe, has been living in fear since the trials began,
feeling her family may be in danger.
94. Punitive damages are violative of the Due Process and Equal Protection
clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, Section
1983 of Title 42 of the United States Code and Article I, Sections 1, 6, 11 and 26 and
Article V, Section 10(c) of the Pennsylvania Constitution.
95. Punitive damages constitute an unwarranted and unconstitutional
injection of principles of criminal law into this civil action without the constitutional
safeguards, inter alia, of the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt, freedom from
double jeopardy, a defined standard for punishment and a limit thereto, and, by reason
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of the foregoing, are an unconstitutional basis for the taking of Defendant's property
without due process of law.
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
DATED: September Is 2000
BY:~
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court I.D. #39692
340LNorth Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 15TH day of September, 2000, I hereby certify that I am serving
a copy of the foregoing document upon the person(s) and in the manner indicated
below, which service satisfies the requirements of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil
Procedure, by depositing a copy of the same in the United States Mail, Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid, as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
]
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
BY:~-
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court I.D. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
-"
DATED: September I j 2000
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. NQ. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-611113
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strnpe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PLAINTIFFS' REPLY TO NEW MATTER
OF DEFENDANT, GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Plaintiffs Barbara O. Strupe and James G. Strupe, Jr., husband and wife, by and
through their counsel, R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C., file the instant Reply to New
Matter of Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D.:
84-90. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 84-90 of Defendant's New Marter
constitute conclusions of law to which no response is required.
91-92. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 91-92 of Defendant's New Matter
are mere denials ofthe allegations contained in Plaintiffs' Complaint, and are therefore
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inappropriately asserted as New Matter. Furthermore, these allegations constitute
conclusions of law to which no response is required.
93. To the extent that Plaintiffs' claims for injuries, losses and other damages
are related solely, directly and proximately to the reprehensible conduct of Dr. Edwards as
originally alleged in Plaintiffs' Complaint, the allegations contained in Paragraph 93 and
its subparagraphs of Defendant's New Matter are denied for the very reasons stated in
Plaintiffs' Complaint and no further response is required.
94-95. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 94-95 of Defendant's New Matter
constitute conclusions of law to which no response is required.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request that Defendant's New Matter be
dismissed, and judgement entered in their favor.
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
By:
Dated:
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned HEREBY CERTIFIES that true and correct copies of the foregoing
document was served upon all counsel of record this,.}1 s::1'day of j~,
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2000, by depositing said copy in the United States Mail at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,
postage prepaid, fust class delivery, and addressed as follows:
Peter 1. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
305 North Front Street
Sixth Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, P A 17108
Counsel for Family Physician Associates, Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Counselfor George E. Edwards, MD.
R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
By tfla.uf.~
Barnett
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THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
By: Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Identification No. 16622
305 North Front Street
P. O. Box 999
Harrisburg, PA 17108
(717) 255-7637
Attorney for Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc.
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband
and wife,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL V ANlA
Plaintiffs
v.
DOCKET NO. 2000-2020 Civil Term
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D., and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
ANSWER OF DEFENDANT
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
TO PLAINTIFFS' COMPLAINT
AND NOW comes the Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc., by and through their
attorneys, Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, and hereby Answer Plaintiffs' Complaint as follows:
1.-3. The averments contained in Paragraphs 1 through 3 of Plaintiffst Complaint are
admitted.
4.-18. The averments contained in Paragraphs 4 through 18 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
denied generally in accordance with and pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1029(e).
19. Inasmuch as Paragraph 19 sets forth conclusions as opposed to statements of fact
and also is not directed to the responding Defendant, no answer is required. Nevertheless, it is
denied that punitive damages are warranted against Dr. Edwards in this instance.
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20. The averments contained in Paragraph 20 of Plaintiffs' Complaint set forth
conclusions as opposed to statements of fact and no response is required. Nevertheless, said
averments are denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
21. The averments contained in Paragraph 21 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied and
proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
22.-27. The averments contained in Paragraphs 22 through 27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint
set forth conclusions as opposed to statements of fact and no response is required. Nevertheless,
said averments are denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
COUNT I
BARBARA O. STRUPE v. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Assault
28. Paragraphs 1 through 27 of this Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint are incorporated
herein by reference as if set forth at length.
29.-31. The averments contained in Paragraphs 29 through 31 of Plaintiffs' Complaint
do not pertain to the responding Defendant and no answer is required.
WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
COUNT II
BARBARA O. STRUPE v. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Battery
32. Paragraphs 1 through 27 of this Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint are incorporated
herein by reference as if set forth at length.
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33.-37. The averments contained in Paragraphs 33 through 37 of Plaintiffs' Complaint
do not pertain to the responding Defendant and no answer is required.
WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
COUNT III
BARBARA O. STRUPE v. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
38. Paragraphs I through 27 of this Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint are incorporated
herein as if set forth at length.
39.-42. The averments contained in Paragraphs 39 through 42 of Plaintiffs' Complaint do
not pertain to the responding Defendant and no answer is required.
WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
COUNT IV
BARBARA O. STRUPE v. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress
43. Paragraphs I through 27 of this Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint are incorporated
herein by reference as if set forth at length.
44.-49. The averments contained in Paragraphs 44 through 49 of Plaintiffs' Complaint do
not pertain to the responding Defendant and no answer is required.
WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
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COUNT V
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR. v. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Loss of Consortium
50. Paragraphs 1 through 49 of this Answer to Plaintiffst Complaint are incorporated
herein by reference as if set forth at length.
51. The averments contained in Paragraph 51 of Plaintiffs' Complaint do not pertain
to the responding Defendant and no answer is required.
WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
COUNT VI
BARBARA O. STRUPE v. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Vicarious Liability
52. Paragraphs 1 through 49 of this Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint are incorPorated
herein by reference as if set forth at length.
53. The averments contained in Paragraph 53 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied as
stated. It is admitted that Dr. Edwards was employed by Family Physician Associates, Inc., for a
long period of time. It is also admitted that he acted as Mrs. Strupe's family physician. Finally,
it is admitted that family physicians try to, and on occasion do, gain the trust and friendship of
their patients. The responding Defendant believes that this may, in fact, have been the case with
Dr. Edwards and Mrs. Strupe.
54.-56. The averments contained in Paragraphs 54 through 56 of Plaintiffs' Complaint
are denied as stated. It is admitted that Dr. Edwards' employment with Family Physician
4
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Associates permitted him to have a physician-patient relationship with Mrs. Strupe and others,
which, by its nature, is personal and necessitates physical contact.
57. The averments contained in Paragraph 57 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied as
stated. It is admitted that a physician-patient relationship requires the exchange of information
between the physician and the patient. It is further admitted that a good physician-patient
relationship facilitates the exchange of this information thereby benefiting the patient.
58. The averments contained in Paragraph 58 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied as
stated. It is admitted that the nature and scope of Dr. Edwards' employment with Family
Physician Associates was that of a family practice physician acting in the same or similar
circumstances.
59.-61. The averments contained in Paragraph 59 through 61 ofPlaintiffst Complaint are
specifically denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
COUNT VII
BARBARA O. STRUPE v. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Negligence
62. Paragraphs 1 through 27 of this Answer to Plaintiffst Complaint are incorporated
herein by reference as if set forth at length.
63. The averments contained in Paragraph 63 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied as
stated. It is admitted that at all times relevant hereto, when Barbara Strupe was receiving
5
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medical care and treatment from Family Physician Associates and Dr. Edwards, Dr. Edwards
was acting within the course and scope of his employment with Family Physician Associates.
64.-65. The averments contained in Paragraphs 64 and 65 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
specifically denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
66.-68. The averments contained in Paragraphs 66 through 68 of Plaintiffst Complaint
are specifically denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
69. The averments contained in Paragraph 69 of Plaintiffs' Complaint set forth
conclusions as opposed to statements of fact and no response is required. Nevertheless, said
averments are denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial. Furthermore, the
responding Defendant believes and therefore avers that at all times relevant hereto, it acted
reasonably and in accordance with appropriate standards.
70.-74. The averments contained in Paragraphs 70 through 74 ofPlaintiffst Complaint set
forth conclusions as opposed to statements of fact and no response is required. Nevertheless,
said averments are denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
COUNT VIII
BARBARA O. STRUPE v. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress
75. Paragraphs 1 through 27 and 62 through 74 of this Answer to Plaintiffs'
Complaint are incorporated herein by reference as if set forth at length.
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76. The averments contained in Paragraph 76 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied as
stated. The corporate entity Family Physician Associates is not a health care provider. Mrs.
Strupets physician-patient relationship was not with Family Physician Associates but rather with
Dr. Edwards and any other physicians she may have seen at the Family Physician Associates
facility. Nevertheless, it is admitted that Family Physician Associates did owe Mrs. Strupe, as
well as the other individuals who are cared for and treated by the physicians employed by Family
Physician Associates, a duty to act reasonably under the circumstances.
77.-81. The averments contained in Paragraphs 77 through 81 of Plaintiffs' Complaint
set forth conclusions as opposed to statements of fact and no response is required. Nevertheless,
said averments are denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
COUNT IX
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR. v. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Loss of Consortium
82. Paragraphs 1 through 27 and 62 through 81 of this Answer to Plaintiffs'
Complaint are incorporated herein by reference as if set forth at length.
83. The averments contained in Paragraph 83 of Plaintiffs' Complaint set forth
conclusions as opposed to statements of fact and no response is required. Nevertheless, said
averments are denied and proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
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WHEREFORE, responding Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against the
Plaintiffs.
Respectfully submitted,
ER, LLP
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VERIFICATION
I, G. Robert Little, M.D., do hereby swear and affirm that the facts and matters set forth
in the foregoing document are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and
belief. I understand that the statements made herein are made subject to the penalties of Pa. C.S.
94904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Date: ID-/O-fXJ
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a: Robert Little, M.D.
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Kathy L. Sitler, an employee of the law offices of Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, do
hereby certify that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing document upon the following
persons via United States mail, first class, postage prepaid, as follows:
Jan Barnett, Esquire
R. J. Marzella & Associates
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg,PA 17110
Andrew Dowling, Esquire
Mette, Evans & Woodside
3401 NorthFrontStrecl
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Date: O~.fLJL /;J, c000G
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KATHY IILER
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THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
By: Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Identification No. 16622
305 North Front Street
P. O. Box 999
Harrisburg, PA 17108
(717) 255-7637
Attorney for Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc.
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband
and wife,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
Plaintiffs
v.
DOCKET NO. 2000-2020 Civil Term
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D., and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
PRAECIPE TO FILE ORDER OF LIQUIDATION ISSUED BY THE
COMMONWEALTH COURT OF PENNSYLVANIA FEBRUARY 1, 2002
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please file of record the attached Order of Liquidation issued by the Commonwealth
Court of Pennsylvania February 1, 2002. The party/parties represented by Peter J. Curry,
Esquire are insured by PHICO Insurance company and, therefore, the provisions of the Order of
Liquidation, including paragraph 24, apply to the above-captioned case.
p~
Dated: February 26, 2002
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IN THE COMMONWEALTH COURT OF PENNSYLVANIA
M. Diane Koken, Insurance
Commissioner of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania
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Plaintiff
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v.
No. 427 M.D. 2001
1-'
PRICO Insurance Company
One PRICO Drive
. P.O. Box 85
Mechanicsburg,PA 17055-0085
Defendant
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ORDER OF LIQUIDATION
AND NOW, this 1st day of February, 2002, upon consideration of the
Petition for Liquidation (Petition), filed by Diane Koken, Insurance Commissioner
of the Commonwealth of Penru;y1vania (Commissioner), in her capacity as
Statutory Rehabilitator of PillCD Insurance Compa;ny (PHICD), in accordance
with Article V of the II:~ur8nce Departn}ent Act (Act), Act of 1921, as amended,
40 P.S. SS21l-221.63; and the Consent thereto, it is hereby'ORDERED and
DECREED that said Petition is GRANTED.
It is further ordered and decreed that:
1. The rehabilitation ofPHICOcornmenced under this court's
order of August 16, 2001 is hereby terminated.
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2. PHICO is hereby found to be and is declared to be insolvent, as
that telID is defined in 40 P.S. g221.3 and as provided in 40 P.S. 99221.14(1) and
221.19.
3. The Commissioner (including her successor:.S in office) is
hereby appointed Liquidator of PHICO. The Liquidator (including her successors
and designees) is directed to take possession of PRIeD's property, business and
affairs as Liquidator, to liquidate PRICO in accordance with Article V of the Act
and to take such action as the Liquidator' deems to be in the interest of
policyholders, creditors or the public.
. 4. The'Liqilidatol: is hereby vested with all the powers, rights and
duties authorized under the Act arid other applicable law and regulation.
ASSETS OF THE ESTATE
5.. The.:Commissioner, is Liquidator, is veste~ with title to all .
property, assets, contracts and rights of action '(assets) of PIDCO, of whatever.
nature and wherever located, whether held directly or indirectly, as of the date of -
the filing of the Petition. All assets ofPRICO are hereby foundto be in custodia
legis of this court; and this court specifically asserts, to the fullest. extent of its
authority, (a) in rem jurisdiction overall assets of PFlIC;O wherever they maybe
located and regardless of whether they are held in the name of PFlICOor any other
name; (b) exclusive jurisdiction over all detenninations of the validity and a.IlJ.ount
of claims against PilleD; and (c) exclusive jurisdiction over the determination of
the distribution priority of all claims against PHICO.
2
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6. The filing or recording of the Order with the clerk of the
Commonwealth Court or with the recorder of deeds of the COWIty in which its
principal office is located (Cumberland County, P A) shall impart the same notice
as a deed, bill of sale or other evidence of title duly filed or recDrded with that
recorder of deeds would have imparted.
7. All banks, investment banks, or other companies, other entities
01' other persons having in their possession assets which are, or may be, the
property of PHI CO, shall, unless otherwise instructed by the Liquidator, deliver the
possession of the same immediately to the Liquidator, and shall not disburse, .
. convey, transfer, pledge, assign, hypothecate,.encumber orin any manner dispose
of the same without prior written consent of, or unless directed in writing by, the
Liquidator.
8. All .,persons and. entities, including but. not limited to
accountants, auditors, bankers, trustees and actuaries, are enjoined from disposing
of or destroying any documents, correspondence or records, regardless of how
maintained (i.e. email, electronic, magnetic, etc.) pertaining or relating to, whether
directly or indirectly,' PIDCO, or its subsidiaries and affiliates,inc1uding but not
limited to documents pertaining or relating to any transactions between PRICO, its
subsidiaries and affiliates and any party;
9. The amount recoverable by the Liquidato~ from any reinsurer
shall not be reduced as a result of the Order of LiquidatioJ, regardless of any
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provision in a reinsurance contract or other agreement. Payment made directly by
a reinsurer to an insured or creditor of PRICD shall not diminish the reinsurer's
obligation to PRIeO, except to the extent provided by law.
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10. All agents, brokers or. other persons having ~old policies of
insurance issued by PRICO shall account for and pay all unearned commissions
and all premiums, collected and uncollected., for the benefit of PillCO directly to
the Liquidator, within thirty (30) days of notice oftbis Order. No agent, broker,
r-einsurance intermediary or other person shaH disburse .or use monies which come
into theii' possessi.on and are owed to, or are clai.med by, FillCD for any purpose
other than payment to the Liquidator. .
n. Upon speclfic written instruction by the Liquidator, all
attorneys retained by PHrCO or perfonning legal services for PRICO sh~l1, within .
thirty (30) days of such re,!uest, report to the Liqui.dator the name, company claim
number (if applicable).and status of each matter they are.hand.ling on behalf of
PRICO. Said report shall include an accounting of any funds received from or on
behalf of PHI CO for any purpose and in any capacity..
12. Upon instruction by the Liquidator, any entity furnishing
telephone, water, electric, sewage, garbage, trash removal, or utility services to
PRICO shall maintain such service and create a new account for the Liquidator as
of the effective date of this Order.
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13. Unless otherwise instructed by the .Liquidator, any persons or
entity having custody or control of any data processing information and records
(including but not limited to source documents, all types of electronically stored
documents and information, master tapes or any other recorded information)
relating to PHICO or its subsidiaries or affiliates, shall transfer custody and control
of such records, in a form readable by the Liquidator, to the Liquidator.
14. Unless instructed otherwise by the Liquidator, all persons and
entities furnishing claims processing or data processing services to PHICO shall
maintain such services and transfer any such aCCl!lunts to the Liquidator as of the
effective date of this Order.
15. PHICO, each of its subsidiaries and affiliates, and their
respective present and former officers, dire<<?tors, trustees, employees, consul.tants,
agents 'and attorneys, and any and all other persons, shall: (a) surrender peacefully.
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to the Liquidator the p:remises where PRico conducts its busin~ss;{b)deIiveral1.
keys or access codes thereto and to any safe deposit boxes, and advise the
Liquidator of the combinations or access codes of any safe or safekeeping devices '-
of PHICO or any password or authorization code or access code required for
access to data processing equipment; (c) deliver and surrender peacefully to the
Liquidator, all of the assets, books, records, files, credit cards, or other property of
PHICO in their possession or control, wherever located; and Cd) otherwise advise
and cooperate with the Liquidator in identifying and locating any and all of the
foregoing.
5
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16. Except for contracts. of insurance and for remsurance, all
executory contracts to which PHICO is a party as of the effective date of this Order
are hereby disavowed, and will stand as disavowed, unless specificlll1y affirmed by
the Liquidator within 120 days of the effective date of this Order. Any ~isavowal
under this provision shall not be an anticipatory breach of any suc~ contract. All
indemnification agreements entered into by PHICO during the rebabilitation are
hereby affirmed, and the Liquidator is hereby indemnified by the estate of PHI CO,
as an administrative expense, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
CONTn-..ruA TION AND CANCELLATION OF COVERAGE.
17. All policies and contracts of insurance issued by PHICO are
caricelled and terminated for all purposes. upon the earliest of the following dates:
(a) thirty days from the effective date of this Order; (b) until the expiration of the .
policy or contract; (c) until the insured has replaced the insurance coverage with
equivalent insurance with an,other insurer or otherwise terunnated the policy; or (d) .
'.-
until the Liquidator ha.s..effected a transfer of the policyobli!j?ation pursuant to
section 221.23(8) of the Act.
WORKERS' COMPENSATION CLAIMS
18. For a period not to exceed 90 days from the effective date of
this Order, the Liquidator is authorized but not obligated, in her sole discretion, to
makc arrangements for the continued payment in full of the claims under policies
of workers' compensation by making the facilities, computer systems, books,
records and arrangements with third party administrators (to the extent possible) of
PHICO available for the processing and payment of such claims, to any affected
6
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guaranty association (or other entity that is the functional equivalent) and to states
and state officials holding statutory deposits for the benefit of such workers'
compensation claimants, provided, however, that such guaranty associations, states
or state officials shall provide or make available the funds to make the actual
payment of such claims. In circumstances where a guaranty association certifies in
writing to the Liquidator that it does not have the immediate ability to fund the
payment of workers' compensation claims that are its obligation by law, the
Liquidator is authorized to advance the funds, if available, from PRIeO to pay
S11ch claims on a temporary basis for a period not to exceed 90 days, provided that
the guaranty association enters into a written agreement that such advances shall be
treated as a distribution pursuant to 40 P.S. !l22l.36. The Liquidator shall have the
discretion to accept such interim assurances as she deems adequate in lieu of a
formal agreement.
NOTICE AND. PROCEDURE FOR FILING CLAIMS
19. The ...Liquidator shall.use good faith efforts. to give notice by
first-class mail to all entities or persons which or who may have claims against
PRICO, contingent or otherwise, as disclosed by its books and records, and
advising claimants to file with the Liquidator their claims together with proper
proofs thereof on or before Aprill, 2003. The Liquidator shall also cause a notice
to be published in newspapers of general circulation where PHrCO has its principal
place of business, as well as in the national edition of the Wall Street Journal, (a)
specifying the last day for the filing of claims; (b) advising all persons of the .
procedure by which all persons may present their claims to the Liquidator; (c)
advising all persons of the address to which they may send their claim; and (d)
7
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advising all such persons of tbeir right to present their claim or claims to the
Liquidator. Any and all persons,finns or cOJ1lorations having or claiming to have
any accounts, debts, claims or demands against PHIeO, contingent or otherwise, or
claiming any right, title or interest in any funds or property inthe possession of the
Liquidator are required to file with the Liquidator at the location d,esignated in the
above-described notices, on or before the date specified by the Liquidator as the
last date upon which to file a claim, a properly completed proof of claim or be
thereafter barred as claimants against any assets in the possession of the
Liquidator, unless a late filing is permitting under 40 P.S. g22L37. No person or
entity shall be eligible to participate in any distribution of tlle assets of PHleo
unless such claims are filed or presented in accordance with and within the time
limit and procedures established by the Liquidator, subject to the provisions for the
late filing of claims at 40 P.S. 9221.37.
EXPENSES. PAYMENTS AND LA WSUlTS
20. Wit1:out filing a petition for distribution, tht;; Liquidator shall
have the discretion to pay as costs and expenses of administration pursuant to 40
P.S. g221.44, the actual, reasonable and necessary costs of preserving or
recovering assets of PHI CO and the costs of goods or services provided to and
duly approved by PRICO (In Rehabilitation) during the period of Rehabilitation
and that are nnpaid as ofthe effective date of this Order. The rights and liabilities
.of PRIeO and of its creditors, policyholders, trustees, shareholders, members and
all other persons interested in this estate determined in accordance with the Act as
of the date of filing of the Petition for Liquidation.
8
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21. PRICO, its subsidiaries and affiliates, and their respective
directors, officers, trustees, employees, attorneys, brokers, consultants, agents,
policyholders, and creditors, and any other persons, wherever located,::f;.cep~,at the
direction of the Liquidator, are enjoined from: (a) the transaction ?f further.
business on behalf of or for PRICO, (b) the transferring, selli~g, terminating,
canceling, disbursing, disposing of or assigning any assets, funds or other property
of PHI CO, (c) the institution or further prosecution of any actions in law or equity
on behalf of or against PRICO, (d) attempting to coUect unpaid premiums,
de:ductibles or self-insured retentions :from PRICO's insureds, and (e) taking any
other action which might or would lessen the value ofPHICO's assets or property,.
prejudice the rights and interests of PRICO's policyholders and creditors, or
interfere in the administration of the liquidation proceeding.
22. PHICO, its subsidiaries and affiliates, and their respective
directors, officers, trustee.~, employees, attorneys, brokers,. comultants, agents,
policyholders, and cred!~Qrs, and any other persons, wherever loc:ated, are enjoined
from: . (a) concealing or destroying any assets, funds or other property of PRICO,
Cb) any interference, in any manner, with the Commissioner or her designees in
liquidating PHICO's business l!Il.d affairs, (c) any waste of PHICO's assets or
property, Cd) the dissipation or transfer of PHI CO's bank accounts and negotiable
instruments, (e) the obtaining of preferences, judgments, attaclum,uts,
garnishments or liens against PRICO's assets, property and policyholders, Cf) the
levy of execution process againstPHICOand its assets, property and
policyholders, (g) the negotiation or execution of any agreement of sale or deed
conveying personal or real property of PHICO for nonpayment of taxes or
9
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assessments or for any. other purpose, (h) withholding from the Liquidator or
removing, concealing, transferring or destroying books, accounts, documents,
policies or policy-related documents or other records relating to PHICO's business,
and (i) maki'ng any assessments or indirectly collecting such assessments ?y setting
them off against amounts otherwise payable to PRICO.
23. No action at law or equity, including but not limited to
arbitrations and mediations, shall be brought against PRICO, the Liquidator, or the
Conunissioner in her capacity as Liquidator, whether in this Commonwealth or
elsewhere, nor shall any such existing action be maintained or further prosecuted
after the effective date of this Order, All actions, including arbitrations and
mediations, currently pending against PillCO in the courts of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania or elsewhere,. are hereby stayed ind~fi.nitely_ All .actions,
arbitrations and mediations againstPHICD, the Liquidator, or the Commissioner in
her capacity as Rehabilitat?r o~ Liquidator, shall be submitted and considered 3$ .
claims in a liquidation proceeding. Only in the event that a Pa:tY claims that the
Liquidator, or the Commissioner in her capacity as Rehabilitator or Liquidator, has
acted outside her statutory authori~ or in a manner contrary to law, may that party
file a petition for review seeking reUefin this court.
" .
24. Unless waived or otherwise agreed by all of the parties thereto
and the relevant guaranty associatiori, all actions in which PRICD is or may be
obligated. to defend a party in any court are stayed to the extent provided by
applicable law, subject to further order of the court. The Liquidator may
10
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cooperate, upon request of a guaranty association, in seeking a stay of any action,
as authorized under applicable law.
25. No verdict, judgment or order against PHlCO or it~ insureds
entered after the date of filing of the Petition for Liquidation, ~d no verdict,
judgment or order against PHICO entered at any time by default .or by collusion,
need be considered as evidence or proof of liability or quantum of damages by ,he
Liquidator.
26. No action or proceeding in the nature of an attachment,
garnishment. or execution shall be commenced or maintained. in this
Commonwealth or elsewhere against PHICO, the Liquidator, or the Commissioner
in her capacity as Liquidator, or their assets.
27. All secured creditors or parties, pledgees, lienholders, collateral
holders or other perso!ls claiming secured, priority or preferreli interests in any
property or assets of PHICO are hereby enjoined from taking ::my steps whatsoever
to transfer, sell, assign, encumber, attach, dispose of, or exercise, purported rights
in or against any property or assets of PRIeO, except as provided in 40 P.S.
9221.43.
28. The Liquidator is authorized, in her discreion, to identify, seek
and recover PHICO assets held by (a) the Supplemental Renement Income Plan
Trust; (b) the Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan Trus:: or (c) any rabbi or
other trusts or plans with respect to benefits or other value c remuneration to be
11
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provided to members or fomier members of management or highly compensated
employees of PHI CO or any of its subsidiaries oraffili'l-tes.
29. This Order shall be effective on February 1, 2002 and
supersedes this court's order of August 16,2001.
30. The Liquidator, through her counsel, is hereby directed to serve
a copy of this Order upon all parties of record. The Liquidator, through her
cOlmsel, is directed to file with the court in the Office of the Prothonotary, 9th
Floor, Widener Building, 1339 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, an
affidavit that such service has been effectuated.
3 1. Any correspondence to the Liquidator (as opposed to counsel to
the Liquidator) shall be directed as follo~s; Statutory. Liquidator, PIDCO
Insurance Company (In Liqqidation), F:.O. Box 2025, Mechanicsburg, fA 17055.
~ 4 ~/ -, ~ ~~,~. '-/
ROCHELLE S. FRIEDMAN, Judge
12
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CERTITICATE OF SERVICE
I, Tracy 1. Paris, an employee of the law offices of Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, do
hereby certify that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing document upon the following
persons via United States mail, first class, postage prepaid, as follows:
J an Barnett, Esquire
R. J. Marzella & Associates
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg,PA 17110
Andrew Dowling, Esquire
Mette, Evans & Woodside
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, P A 1711 0-0950
Date: ;{- ;;;'/r f/r
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TRACY 1. ARIS
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THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
By: Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Identification No. 16622
305 North Front Street
P. O. Box 999
Harrisburg, PA 17108
(717) 255-7637
AUorney for Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc.
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband
and wife,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL VANIA
Plaintiffs
v.
DOCKET NO. 2000-2020 Civil Term
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D., and
F AMlL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.,
Defendants
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
AND NOW come the Defendants, Family Physician Associates, Inc. , hereby
amend their Matter to Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint to include the following averments:
1. Defendants were insured under a policy issued by PHICO Insurance
Company.
2. The Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania entered an Order of
Liquidation with a finding of insolvency against PHICO effective February 1, 2002.
3. As a result of the Liquidation Order, the provisions of 40 P.S.
9991.1817(a) apply to the Plaintiffst claim. This provision provides, in relevant part, that:
"Any person having a claim under an insurance policy shall
be required to exhaust first his right under such policy. For
purposes of this section, a claim under an insurance policy
, -==.
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shall include a claim under any kind of insurance, whether it
is first-party or third-party claim, and shall include, without
limitation, accident and health insurance, workers'
compensation, Blue CroSS and Blue Shield and all other
coverages except for policies of an insolvent insurer. Any
amount payable on a covered claim under this Act shall be
reduced by the amount of any recovery under other
insurance. n
40 P.S. ~991.1817(a).
4. Plaintiffs are required to first exhaust their rights under any insurance
policy, including but not limited to claims under accident and health insurance, workers'
compensation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield and all other coverage except for polices of
an insolvent insurer.
5. It is believed and therefore averred that certain or all of Plaintiffs' medical
and other bills for which Plaintiffs seek recovery in this action were paid or are/were
payable under accident and health insurance, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, workerst
compensation insurance, or other insurance.
6. Plaintiffs' recovery or rights to recovery under all other insurance reduces
any amounts payable by the Pennsylvania and Property and Casualty Insurance &
Guaranty Association; to the same extent, Plaintiffs' claim against Answering
Defendants is also reduced.
Respectfully submitted,
THOMA
MAS & HAFER, LLP
DATE:
j /31/fl.-
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THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
By: Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Identification No. 16622
305 North Front Street
P. O. Box 999
Harrisburg, PA 17108
(717) 255-7637
Attorney for Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc.
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
PLEAS OF
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband
PENNSYLVANIA
and wife,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON
CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
Plaintiffs
v.
DOCKET NO. 2000-2020 Civil Term
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D., and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.,
VERIFICATION
I, Peter J. Curry, Esquire, hereby state and aver that I have read the foregoing
AMENDED NEW MATTER TO PLAINTIFF'S AMENDED COMPLAINT. The factual
statements contained therein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge,
information and belief.
This statement is made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S.A. S 4904 relating
to unsworn falsification to authorities, which provides that if I make knowingly false
statements, I may be subject to criminal penalties.
Dated:
:J1.3JJ ~
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.
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Tracy L. Paris, an employee of the law offices of Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, do
hereby certify that I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing document upon the following
persons via United States mail, first class, postage prepaid, as follows:
Robin Marzella, Esquire
R. J. Marzella & Associates
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Andrew Dowling, Esquire
Mette, Evans & Woodside
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Date: fI /3/ fl-
11 0(JM
TRACY L. ~
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court LD. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court LD. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (7171 234-6883
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYL V ANlA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PLAINTIFFS' REPLY TO AMENDED NEW MATTER
OF DEFENDANT, FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Plaintiffs, Barbara O. Strupe and James G. Strupe, Jr., husband and wife, by and
through their counsel, R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C., file the Reply to Amended New
Matter of Defendant, Family Physicians Associates, L'1c. as follows:
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. The allegations contained in Paragraph 3 of Defendant's Amended New Matter
constitute conclusions of law to which no response is required.
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4. The allegations contained in Paragraph 4 of Defendant's Amended New Matter
constitute conclusions oflaw to which no response is required.
5. The allegations contained in Paragraph 5 of Defendant's Amended New Matter
constitute conclusions of law to which no response is required.
6. The allegations contained in Paragraph 6 of Defendant's Amended New Matter
constitute conclusions of law to which no response is required.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs respectfully request that Defendant's Amended New
Matter be dismissed, and judgement entered in their favor.
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
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VERIFICATION
We, Barbara O. Strupe and James G. Strupe, Jr., do hereby swear and affirm that
the facts and matters set forth in the foregoing document are true and correct to the best of
our knowledge, information and belief.
We understand that the statements made therein are made subject to the penalties
of 18 Pa. C.S. S 4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Dated: 0-(2/07.../
~~~~
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Robin J. Marzella, hereby certify that true and correct copies of the foregoing
document was served upon all counsel of record this 12th day of June, 2002, by
depositing said copy in the United States Mail at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, postage
prepaid, first class delivery, and addressed as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
305 North Front Street
Sixth Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, P A 17108
Counsel for Family Physician Associates, Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Counsel for George E. Edwards, M.D.
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE
PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF
A SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of a subpoena for documents and things pursuant to
Rule 4009.22, Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D. certifies that:
(1) a notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoena
attached thereto was mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty
days prior to the date on which the subpoena is sought to be served,
(2) a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoena, is
attached to this certificate,
(3) counsel for plaintiff advised defendant that no objection to the subpoena
will be made and the 20 day notice period is waived, and
(4) the subpoena which will be served is identical to the subpoena which is
attached to the notice of intent to serve the subpoena.
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
By:
~ -=:-
ANDREW H. DOWLING, ESQUIRE
(Supreme Court 1.0. #39692)
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Attorney for Defendant
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: 2/14/03
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and .
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, :
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE A SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY
PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
George E. Edwards, M,D., Defendant, intends to serve a Subpoena to Produce
Document and Things upon Chief of Police, New Cumberland Police Department,
identical to the one that is attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the
date listed below in which to file of record and serve upon the undersigned objections to
the subpoena. If no objections are made, the subpoena may be served.
MElTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
BY:
.=~
.-
ANDREW H. DOWLING. ESQUIRE
SupremeCourtt D. No. 39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O.Box5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
DATED: lta~lo~
Attorneys for Defendant
George E. Edwards, M.D.
e1!l,~.
.-.- ,
,
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
,: IN TIvIE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
~: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its
service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
Name: ANDREW H. DOWLING. ESQUIRE
Address: METTE. EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 NORTH FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG. PA 17110
Telephone: (717\ 232-5000
Supreme Court ID# 39692
ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant. GeorQe E. Edwards. M.D.
BY THE COURT:
DATE: !ilrfI"M~':)O ,;>0l1~
(j Se of the Court
il Division)
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Return of Service
.
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Onthe_d~YQf .,2003,1. .'. .... .... ,served
with the foregoing subpoena by: (Describe meth@dofservice)
I verify
that the statements in this return of service are true and correct. lunders~nd t~at fal~e $.tatemE:!nts.'j:lerein
are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.SA Sec. 4904 refilling to unl;lworn f<!lslTIcation to. au!honties.
DATE:
(Signature)
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CERTll='ICA TE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I am this day serving a copy of the foregoing document upon
the person and in the manner indicated below, which service satisfies the requirements of
the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure, by depositing a copy of same in the United
States Mail, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with first class postage prepaid, addressed as
follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Robin Marzella, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
BY: _____ c
ANDREW H, DOWLlNG,ESQUIRE
Supreme Court I. D. No. 39692
--
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: tt~lo~
31_
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.
., .
~~""- :
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I am this day serving a copy of the foregoing document upon
the person and in the manner indicated below, which service satisfies the requirements of
the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure, by depositing a copy of same in the United
states Mail, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with first class postage prepaid, addressed as
follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Robin Marzella, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
BY:
~
----- ~ ~
ANDREW H. DOWLING, ESQUIRE
Supreme Court I. D. No. 39692
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: 2/14/03
316564
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR..
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY. PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE
PREREQUISITE TO SERVICE OF
A SUBPOENA PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
As a prerequisite to service of subpoenas for documents and things pursuant to
Rule 4009.22, Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D. certifies that:
(1) a notice of intent to serve the subpoenas with copies of the subpoenas
attached thereto was mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty
days prior to the date on which the subpoenas are sought to be served,
(2) a copy of the notice of intent, including the proposed subpoenas, is
attached to this certificate,
(3) counsel for plaintiff advised defendant that no objections to the
subpoenas will be made and the 20 day notice period is waived, and
(4) the subpoenas which will be served are identical to the subpoenas which
are attached to the notice of intent to serve the subpoenas.
By:
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
~ -=-
ANDREW H. DOWLING, ESQUIRE
(Supreme Court 1.0. #39692)
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Attorney for Defendant
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: 2/18/03
jf!l!l!!_~,~
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BARBARA 0, STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E~ EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, :
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SERVE A SUBPOENA
TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS AND THINGS FOR DISCOVERY
PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.21
George E. Edwards, M.D., Defendant, intends to serve Subpoenas to Produce
Documents and Things, upon Harrisburg, Hospital, Patricia A. Reddy, M.D., Sharon,
R. Frankel, M.D., Abel Temps, and Protection Service, Inc., identical to the ones that
are attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days from the date listed below in
which to file of record and serve upon the undersigned objections to the subpoenas. If
no objections are made, the subpoenas may be served.
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
BY: ~~ --:::.--
ANDREW H. DOWLING. ESQUIRE
Supreme Court I. D. No. 39692
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
DATED: 1\ #.\03
Attorneys for Defendant
George E. Edwards, M.D.
~...-
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,- -, '
'BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D, and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASS6cIA TES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOGUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: MEDICAL RECORDS CUSTODIAN - HARRISBURG HOSPITAL
(Name of Person or Entity)
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents or things: all records relatina to BARBARA 5TRUPE DOB: 02/14/51: 55# 237-88-
7249: inctudina but not limited to all medical records. treatment charts. referrals. consultations.
evaluations. diaanostlc studies and findinas. radloloav reoorts. oroaress notes, hosoital records and
any and all medical records oertainina to medical care. historv. condition. treatment, diaanosis,
oroanosis. or etioloav and any and all records not soecificallv identified above.
You are required to produced these records to: Andrew H. Dowling, Esq. METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
at 3401 North Front street. Harrisbura. PA 17110
(Address)
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena,
together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above.
You have the right to seek, In advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the
things sought.
Ilf you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its
service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
Name: ANDREWH. DOWLING. ESQUIRE
Address: METTE. EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 NORTH FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG. PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
Supreme Court ID# 39692
ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant. Georae E. Edwards. M.D.
BY THE COURT:
DATE:
Seal of the Court
(Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division)
Deputy
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR..
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
.
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES.
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Medical Records Custodian -PATRICIA A. REDDY, M.D.
(Name of Person or Entity)
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents or things: all records relatina to BARBARA STRUPE DOB: 02/14/51: SS# 237-88-
7249: includina but not limited to all medical records. treatment charts. referrals. consultations.
evaluations. diaanostic studies and findinas. redioloov repOrts. orooress notes, hosoital records and
anv and all medical records oertainina to medical care. history, condition. treatment. diaanosis.
oroanosis, or etioloav and any and all records not soecificallv identifl6d above.
You are required to produced these records to: Andrew H. Dowling, Esq. METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
at 3401 North Front Street. Harrisbura. PA 17110 .
(Address)
You may deliver or maillegibJe copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena,
together with the certificate of compliance. to the party making this request atthe address listed above.
You have the right to seek, in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copi~s or producing the
things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its
"ervice, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
Name: ANDREW H. DOWLING. ESQUIRE
Address: METTE. EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 NORTH FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG. PA 17110
Telephone: 1717\ 232.5000
Supreme Court JD# 39692
ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant. Georae E. Edwards. M.D.
BY THE COURT:
DATE:
Seal of the Court
(Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division)
Deputy
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY pHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Medical Records Custodian - SHARON R. FRANKEL. M.D.
(Name of Person or Entity)
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents. or things: all records relatine to BARBARA STRUPE 008: 02/14/51: SS# 237-88-
7249: includino but not limited to all medical records, treatment charts. referrals. consultations.
evaluations. diaonostic studies and findinas. radioloav reports, proaress notes. hospital records and
any and all medical records pertainina to medical care. historv. condition. treatment. diaanosis.
proenosis. or etioloov and any and all records not soecificallv identified above.
You are required to produced these records to: Andrew H. Dowling, Esq. METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
at 3401 North Front Street. Harrisbure. PA 17110
(Address)
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena,
together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above.
You have the right to seek, in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the
things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its
service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
Name: ANDREW H. DOWLING. ESQUIRE
Address: METTE. EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 NORTH FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG. PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
:3upreme Court 10# 39692
ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant. Georoe E. Edwards. M.D.
BY THE COURT:
DATE:
Seal of the Court
(Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division)
Deputy
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'BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS ,
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIA rES,
. .
INC.
'.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS
. FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Records Custodian - Abel Temos
(Name of PersOn or Entity)
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents or things: a complete COPY of any and all employment records reoardino BARBARA
STRUPE OOB: 02/14/51: SS# 237-88. 7249: includino but not limited to all documentation concernino
dates of employment. attendance records. waoe and earninos documentation. performance eyaluations,
disciplinarv records, employment applications. resumes, iob description includlno description of duties,
benefit plans and medical records.
You are required to produced these records to: Andrew H. Dowling, Esq. METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
at 3401 North FrontStreet. Harrisburo. PA 17110
(Address)
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena,
together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed aboye.
You have the right to seek, in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the
things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its
service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOllOWING PERSON:
Name: ANDREW H. DOWLING. ESQUIRE
Address: METTE. EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 NORTH FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG. PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 232.5000
Supreme Court 10# 39692
ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant. Georoe E. Edwards. M.D.
BY THE COURT:
DATE:
Seal of the Court
(Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division)
Deputy
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
.: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M;D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS .
FOR DISCOVERYPU,~SUANT TO RULE 4009.22
TO: Records Custodian - Protection Service. Inc.
(Name of Person or Entity)
Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the
following documents or things: a comolete coov of any and all emolovment records reaardina BARBARA
STRUPE DOB: 02/14/51: SS# 237.88. 7249: includinG but not limited to all documentation concernina
dates of emolovment. attendance records, waGe and earninas documentation, oerformance evaluations.
disciolinarv records. emolovment aoolications. resumes. iob descriotibn includinG descriotion of duties,
benefit olans and medical records.
You are required to produced these records to: Andrew H. Dowling, Esq. METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
at 3401 North Front Street. HarrisburG. PA 17110
(Address)
You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena,
together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above.
You have the right to seek, in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the
things sought.
If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its
service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to Comply with it.
THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON:
Name: ANDREW H. DOWLING. ESQUIRE
Address: METTE. EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 NORTH FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG. PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
!Supreme Court 10# 39692
ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant. Georae E. Edwards. M.D.
BY THE COURT:
DATE:
Seal of the Court
(Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division)
Deputy
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I am this day serving a copy of the foregoing document upon
the person and in the manner indicated below, which service satisfies the requirements of
the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure, by depositing a copy of same in the United
States Mail, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with first class postage prepaid, addressed as
follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North .Front Street
,Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Robin Marzella, Esquire
. .
;3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
BY:~~=
ANDREW H. DOWLING, ESQUIRE
Supreme Court I. D. No. 39692
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: \ \-~1Q)
316564
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I am this day serving a copy of the foregoing document upon
the person and in the manner indicated below, which service satisfies the requirements of
the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure, by depositing a copy of same in the United
States Mail, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with first class postage prepaid, addressed as
follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Robin Marzella, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
BY:
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ANDREW H. DOWLING, ESQUIRE
Supreme Court I. D. No. 39692
3401 North Front Street
P. O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
Telephone: (717) 232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: 2/18/03
316564
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband
and wife,
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
vs.
00-2020 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.,
and F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN
ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendant
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
IN RE: DEFENDANT'S MOTION TO COMPEL
ORDER
AND NOW, this
I' day of May, 2003, a brief argument on the within motion to
compel is set for Wednesday, May 28, 2003, at 2:30 p.m. in Courtroom Number 4, Cumberland
County Courthouse, Carlisle, P A.
BY THE COURT,
,41. Marzella, Esquire
For the Plaintiffs
,4i
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Peter 1. Curry, Esquire
For the Defendants
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
DEFENDANT'S MOTION TO COMPEL
PURSUANT TO CUMBERLAND COUNTY LOCAL RULE 4001-1
AND NOW, comes Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D., by his attorneys,
Mette, Evans and Woodside, and files this Motion to Compel pursuant to Cumberland
County Local Rule 4001-1, based on the following:
1. The above captioned matter is a civil action brought by Plaintiff, Barbara
Strupe and her husband against Dr. Edwards and his former practice as a result of
improper touching during an examination of Barbara Strupe by Dr. Edwards, resulting in
alleged emotional distress and other psychological damages to Plaintiff, Barbara
Strupe.
2. As pled in the Complaint, Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe has put her mental,
emotional and psychological health at issue. Complaint attached as Exhibit "A".
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3. In his Answer With New Matter, Dr. Edwards has questioned whether
Plaintiff's alleged emotional, mental and psychological harm is related to his conduct or
other circumstances in the Plaintiff's life, including Barbara Strupe suffering from a ten
year history of anxiety and depression to which treatment has been ongoing; Plaintiff,
Barbara Strupe being the victim of a knife attack by her son; Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe
suffering other abuse by her sons, resulting in a Court Order protecting Plaintiff,
Barbara Strupe from her sons; Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe suffering from financial
problems and other physical/medical problems; Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe suffering from
physical abuse by her ex-husband; Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe suffering severe stress at
her place of employment and Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe feeling "violated" by the news
media due to press coverage of jury trials involving her son, where her son and family
were betrayed negatively concerning racial issues surrounding the trials. Defendant's
Answer With New Matter attached as Exhibit "B".
4. Therefore, as contained in Plaintiff's Complaint and in Defendant Edwards
Answer, clearly Plaintiff's emotional, mental and psychological health is at issue and the
causation of such damages.
5. By letter dated January 29, 2003, Defendant Edwards sent Plaintiff
authorization for release of mental health records directed to:
(a) Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center
(b) Holy Spirit Hospital Out Patient Mental Health
(c) J. K. Moola, M.D.
(d) David G. Petkash, M.D.
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(e) Cumberland/Perry Mental Health and Mental
Retardation
(f) Stevens Mental Health Center
(g) Crisis North
(h) Carlisle Crisis, c/o Stevens Mental Health Center
(i) Dennis Graybill
January 29,2003 correspondence attached hereto as Exhibit "C". An authorization
was also sent for release of employment records directed to IBM Corporation.
6. By letter dated March 4, 2003, Defendant Edwards again requested
Plaintiff provide signed authorizations. Correspondence attached as Exhibit "0".
7. Plaintiff failed to respond to the March 4, 2003 correspondence.
8. Defendant Edwards through counsel attempted to again contact Plaintiffs
attorney and did so by a telephone call on April 14, 2003 and left a message
concerning the authorizations. The phone call was not returned.
9. Plaintiffs are represented by Robin J. Marzella, Esq. of R.J. Marzella &
Associates, P.C., 3513 North Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17110.
Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. is represented by Andrew H.
Dowling, Esq. of Mette, Evans & Woodside, 3401 N. Front St., Harrisburg, Pa 17110.
Defendant, Family Physicians Associates, Inc. i~ represented by Peter
Curry, Esq. ofThomas, Thomas & Hafer, 305 N. Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17101.
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WHEREFORE, Defendant Edwards requests this Court to order Plaintiff to sign
authorizations enumerated in Paragraph 5.
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
DATED: y;;' I' ~ 3
BY:~;:: ~
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court 1.0. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esqnire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
, Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
I 3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-6883
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strope, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTlON - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. arid
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants
JURY TRlAL DEMANDED
NOTICE TO DEFEND
NOTICE
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend against the claims
set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this
Complaint and Notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by
attorney and filing in writing with the Court your defense or objections to the claims set
forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without
you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any
money claimed in the Complaint or for any claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You
may lose money or property or other rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU
DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE
THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL
HELP.
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Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, Pennsylvania
(717) 249-3166
NOTICIA
Le han demandado a usted en la corte. Si usted guiere defenderse de estas
demandas expuestas en las paginas siguintes, usted tiene viente (20) dias de plaza al partir
de la fecha de la demanda y la nontificacion. Usted debe presentar una apariencia escrita 0
en persona 0 por abogado y archivar en la corte en forma escrita sus defensas 0 sus
objectiones alas demandas en contra de su p esona. Sea avisado que si usted no se
defiende, la corte tomara medidas y puede entrar una orden contra usted sin previo aviso 0
notificacion y por cualquier queja 0 alivio que es pedido en la peticion de demanda. Usted
pueda perder dinero 0 sus propiedades 0 otros derechos importantes para usted.
LLEVE EST A DEMAND!. A UN ABODAGO INMEDlA T AMENTA. SI NO
IIENE ABOGADO 0 SI NO TIENE EL DINERO SUFICIENIE DE P AGAR TAL
SERVICIO, V A Y A EN PERSONA 0 LLAME POR TELEFONO A LA LFICINA CUY A
DlRECCION SE ENCUENTRA ESCRIT A ABAJO PARA A VERlGUAR DONDE SE
PEUDE CONSEGUIR ASISTENCIA LEGAL.
Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, Pennsylvania
(717) 249-3166
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.c.
Dated:
rr/IY (d-O&D
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.c.
BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-6883
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
COMPLAINT
Parties to the Action
1. Plaintiffs Barbara O. Strupe and James G. Strupe, Jr., husband and wife. are
adult individuals, sui juris, residing at 16 Campbell Place, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 170 II.
2. Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D., is a physician duly licensed to
practice medicine in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with a residence address of 117
Westover Drive, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania 17070.
3. Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc. ("FP A"), is a healthcare
facility duly organized and existing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
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with a principle place of business at 1900 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania
17070.
Summary of the Causes of Action
4. On November 10, 1998, Dr. Edwards was employed by Defendant FP A as a
family physician.
5. On November 10, 1998, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe was a patient of
Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D., and had been a patient of FP A for approximately ten
years.
6. Over the previous approximate ten years, Defendant Dr. Edwards had
provided gynecological care to Plaintiff Barbara Strupe, including pelvic and breast exams
7. On November 10, 1998, Mrs. Strupe had an appointment with Dr. Edwards
for complaints related to a sinus infection.
8. Dr. Edwards' examination and treatment of Mrs. Strupe on November 10,
1998, occurred behind closed doors with no one else present besides Dr. Edwards and Mrs.
Strupe.
9. Following Dr. Edwards' examination of Mrs. Strupe on November 10,
1998, he asked Mrs. Strupe for a "hug."
10. As a courtesy because of their longstanding professional relationship, Mrs.
Strupe complied with Dr. Edwards' request for a "hug."
11. While Dr. Edwards was "hugging" Mrs. Strupe, he reached out and grabbed
her breast, squeezing it several times before Mrs. Strupe was able to pull away from him.
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12. Immediately before or during the time that he was squeezing Mrs. Strupe's
breast, Dr. Edwards stated to her, "You are all mine," or something similar.
13. At the time of his conduct as described above, Dr. Edwards knew or should
have known of Mrs. Strupe's fragile emotional state resulting from familial and/or
financial stressors she had been experiencing.
14. . Dr. Edwards' conduct referenced in Paragraphs 9, II and 12 constitutes
intentional conduct.
15. Dr. Edwards' conduct referenced in Paragraphs 9, 11 and 12 constitutes an
assault and battery on the person of Mrs. Strupe.
16. At no time did Plaintiff Barbara Strupe consent to the offensive touching
referenced above.
17. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
Paragraph, to the extent Mrs. Strupe consented to the "hug," the consent went no further
and specifically did not excuse further offensive touching by Dr. Edwards, including his
grabbing her breast.
18. As a result of his conduct on November 10, 1998, Dr. Edwards pleaded
guilty to the charge of Indecent Assault as a result of criminal proceedings brought against
him in Cumberland County, Docket No. 99-0193. (The transcript of the guilty plea is
attached hereto as Exhibit A.)
19. As described more fully below, Defendant Dr. Edwards' conduct was
reckless, wanton and intentional, warranting the award of punitive damages.
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20. As described more fully below, Defendant FP A was negligent in its
supervision and/or hiring of Dr. Edwards, and was negligent in supeD'ising other mernbers
of its staff, who were available or should have been available to be present in rooms during
examinations of female patients by male physicians.
21. Upon information and belief, Defendant FP A knew or had reason to know
of Dr. Edwards' propensity to sexually batter its patients, and generally knew or had
reason to know of the risk of male employees sexually battering its patients.
22. Also as described more fully below, Defendant FPA was negligent in not
implementing policies and procedures, or enforcing those already in place, to prevent or
curtail such offensive touching as that committed by Dr. Edwards.
23. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
above and in greater detail below, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe has suffered immediate and
substantial physical and mental hann, including severe emotional distress, headaches,
insomnia, tremors, anxiety and other psychological and emotional hann, requiring
psychological counseling and other medical treatment--past present and future, for all of
which damages are claimed.
24. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
above and in greater detail below, Plaintiffs have incurred medical expenses-past, present
and future, for all of which damages are claimed.
25. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
above and in greater detail below, Mrs. Strupe has suffered lost earnings, a lost earning
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capacity, embarrassment and humiliation, and lost enjoyment oflife, which losses may
continue into the future, and for all of which damages are claimed.
26. The conduct of Defendants increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries described to Plaintiffs.
27. The Defendants are jointly and severally liable for the harms, injuries, and
damages sustained by the Plaintiffs.
COUNT I
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Assault
28. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
29. At the time of his conduct, Dr. Edwards knew or reasonably should have
known that his conduct would put Mrs. Strupe in reasonable and immediate apprehension
of a harmful or offensive contact with his body, and such apprehension was in fact caused.
30. The conduct of Dr. Edwards as described above was intentional and
reckless, conducted in complete disregard of a risk of harm to Mrs. Strupe which he knew
or should have known to be highly probable, and with a conscious indifference to the
consequences.
31. As a direct and proximate result of Dr. Edward's conduct, Plaintiffs have
suffered the injuries and harms described above in Paragraphs 23-25, for all of which
damages are claimed.
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WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
I excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
i
damages as well.
COUNT II
BARBARAO. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Battery
32. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1- 27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
I i incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
I
33. At the time of Dr. Edwards' conduct as described above, Defendant acted
with an intent to cause a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe, and his
I conduct in fact resulted in a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe.
34. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
I Paragraph, Dr. Edwards acted with an intent to put Mrs. Strupe in reasonable and
i
immediate apprehension of a harmful or offensive contact with his body, and his conduct
in fact resulted in a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe.
35. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, and the harmful or offensive contact actually
36. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
'.
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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37. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT III
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
38. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
39. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, as described above, goes beyond all possible
bounds of decency and is such as would be regarded as atrocious and utterly intolerable in
a civilized community.
40. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, as described above, was extreme and
outrageous, and intentionally or recklessly caused severe emotional distress, other highly
unpleasant mental reactions, and immediate and substantial bodily harm resulting from
severe emotional distress to Mrs. Strupe.
41. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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42. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT IV
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress
43. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
44. As her family physician, Dr. Edwards had a fiduciary duty toward his
patient, Barbara Strupe.
45. As described above, the conduct of Dr. Edwards caused Mrs. Strupe to
suffer a physical impact.
46. At the time of Dr. Edwards' conduct as described above, Mrs. Strupe was in
a zone of danger and at risk of an immediate physical and emotional injury.
47. As a direct and proximate result of Dr. Edward's conduct, Plaintiff Barbara
Strupe indeed suffered immediate and substantial physical harm, as alleged above.
48. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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49. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT V
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
Loss of Consortium
50. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-49 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
51. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of the Defendant, George E.
Edwards, M.D., as described above, Plaintiff James G. Strupe, Jr. has been deprived of the
care, companionship and services of his wife, Barbara O. Strupe, for all of which damages
are claimed.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT VI
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
Vicarious Liability
52. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-49 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if nllly set forth.
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53. Dr. Edwards had long been employed by Defendant FPA and in that
capacity acted as Mrs. Strupe's family physician, and had gained her trust and friendship in
that connection.
54. Dr. Edwards' employment with FP A permitted him opportunities for
personal and physical contact with Mrs. Strupe.
55. Dr. Edwards' close physical contact with Mrs. Strupe and other patients was
not only necessary for the nature of his employment with FP A, but it was encouraged as
well by FP A.
56. Whether expressly condoned or not by FP A, Dr. Edwards and other
healthcare employees at the practice were encouraged or permitted to initiate friendly,
close and personal contact with patients.
57. Such friendly, close and personal relationships between the healthcare
employees, including Dr. Edwards, and patients ofFP A would facilitate the exchange of
information between physician and patient, thus benefiting the physician-patient
relationship.
58. The nature and scope of Dr. Edward's employment with FP A, thus included
the cultivation of friendly, close and personal relationships with his patients.
59. Dr. Edwards' close physical contact with Mrs. Strupe and his sexual assault
and battery of her thus may have been actuated by a purpose of serving his employer.
60. In the event Dr. Edwards' sexual assault and battery of Mrs. Strupe was
actuated by a purpose of serving his employer, then FP A is vicariously liable for the
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conduct of Dr. Edwards, which conduct occurred within the nature and scope of his
employment with FP A, and the harm and damages caused to the Plaintiffs.
61. Furthermore, Dr. Edwards' conduct may have been foreseeable by FP A, by
either its knowledge or reason to know of Dr. Edwards' propensity to sexually harass,
assault or batter its patients.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of$25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT VII
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
Negligence
62. The allegations contained in Paragraph 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
63. At the relevant times stated in this Complaint, Barbara Strupe was receiving
medical care and treatment from F? A and Dr. Edwards, who was FP A's actual or
ostensible agent, servant, and/or employee.
64. Upon information and belief, FP A knew or should have known of previous
incidents of inappropriate sexual conduct or contact by Dr. Edwards with patients other
than Barbara Strupe.
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65. Upon information and belief previous incidents of inappropriate sexual
conduct or contact by Dr. Edwards had been reported to or known of by employees and/or
managerial staffofFPA.
66. Upon information and belief, Dr. Edwards and other male healthcare
providers at FP A were permitted to see and/or examine female patients in their offices or
in examination rooms without the presence of a third party, and were able to do so behind
closed doors.
67. Upon information and belief, there was no policy in place at FP A to prevent
conduct such as that engaged in by Dr. Edwards and as described above.
68. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
Paragraph of this Complaint, to the extent such a policy or program existed, it was not
enforced or followed.
69. Defendant FP A had a duty to prevent harm to its patients such as that
experienced by Barbara Strupe, and a duty to control and oversee its staff and employees to
prevent conduct such as that committed by Dr. Edwards--detailed above, and was negligent
in the following particulars:
(a) failing to take appropriate steps to prevent additional incidents of
sexual assault, battery, harassment or other sexually inappropriate conduct by Dr.
Edwards when FP A knew or had reason to know of previous incidents involving
such conduct by Dr. Edwards;
(b) permitting Dr. Edwards to continue seeing patients, particularly
female patients, on its premises when it knew or had reason to know of previous
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incidents of sexual assault, battery, harassment or other sexually inappropriate
conduct by Dr. Edwards;
(c) failing to ensure the presence of a third party in the examination
room or office when Dr. Edwards or other male healthcare providers were seeing
female patients;
(d) failing to ensure that the door to the examination room or office
remained open or ajar while Dr. Edwards or other male healthcare providers were
seeing female patients;
(e) failing to have in place a policy or program addressing or
prohibiting sexual harassment, assault and/or battery of patients;
(f) failing to implement or enforce existing policies or programs
designed or intended to prevent sexual assault, battery and/or harassment of
patients at the hands of healthcare providers on its premises;
(g) failing to adequately or appropriately inquire into or investigate Dr.
Edward's history or background when he first applied for employment, which
investigation or inquiry, upon information and belief, would have revealed a
propensity for such conduct as described above;
(h) in the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately
preceding subparagraph, hiring Dr. Edwards (or continuing his employment) when
FPA knew or should have known of Dr. Edwards' propensity for such conduct as
described above, which hiring (or continuation of employment) constitutes reckless
conduct; and
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(i) failing to appropriately supervise and/or control its staff and
employees to ensure that sexual harassment, assault or battery of its patients did not
occur.
70. Dr. Edwards' reprehensible conduct occurred upon premises in possession
of FP A, and upon which Dr. Edwards was privileged to enter only as its servant, and FP A
knew or had reason to know of its ability to control its servant, and knew or should have
known of the necessity and opportunity for exercising that control.
71. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
72. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
73. In light of its knowledge or reason to know of previous incidents of sexual
assault, battery, harassment or other inappropriate sexual conduct of Dr. Edwards directed
towards its patients, FP A's conduct described above was outrageous and its actions or
failure to act were done with a reckless disregard for the welfare and safety of its patients,
including Barbara Strupe.
74. In light of its knowledge or reason to know of previous incidents of sexual
assault, battery, harassment or other inappropriate sexual conduct of Dr. Edwards directed
towards its patients, Dr. Edwards' conduct alleged above was foreseeable to FP A.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
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excess of$25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as welL
COUNT VIII
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress
75. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27,62-74 of Plaintiffs'
Complaint are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
76. As the provider of her family healthcare needs, FP A had a special
relationship with, and a fiduciary duty toward its patient, Barbara Strupe.
77. As described above, the conduct of FP A caused Mrs. Strupe to suffer a
physical impact in the nature of the offensive touching committed by Dr. Edwards,
resulting in immediate and significant physical and mental harm.
78. At the time ofFPA's conduct detailed above, Mrs. Strupe was in a zone of
danger and at risk of an immediate physical and emotional injury.
79. As a direct and proximate result ofFPA's conduct, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe
indeed suffered immediate and substantial physical harm, as alleged above.
80. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
81. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
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WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs del11andjudgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of$25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT IX
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR. vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
Loss of Consortium
82. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27, 62-81 of Plaintiffs'
Complaint are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
83. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of the Defendant, FP A, as
described above, Plaintiff James G. Strupe, Jr. has been deprived of the care,
companionship and services of his wife, Barbara O. Strupe, for all of which damages are
claimed.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
By:
R i
tt ey Identification No. 66856
J S. Barnett, Esquire
Attorney Identification No. 66122
Dated: ff It i.L !,.}-(l?)D
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EXHIBIT A
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COMMONWEALTH
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERUL~ COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
v.
99-0193 CRIMINAL TERM
CHARGE: INDECENT ASSAULT
GEORGE E. EDWARDS
OTN: F311442-5
AFFIANT: PTL. JOSEPH SPADACCINO
IN RE: GUILTY PLEA & SENTENCING PROCEEDINGS
Proceedings held before the
HONORABLE KBVIN A. HESS, J.,
Cumberland County Courthouse,
Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on
Thursday, March 4, 1999,
in Courtroom Number 4.
APPEARANCES:
MICHAEL SCHWOYER, Esquire
Assistant District Attorney
For the Commonwealth
ANDREW DOWLING, Esquire
For the Defendant
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1
MR. SCHWOY~R: Good afternoon, Your Honor.
2
MR. DOWLING: Good arternoon.
3
THE COURT:. Good afternoon.
4
MR. SCHWOYER: This case is Commonwealth
5 versus George E. Edwards, docketed in the Clerks office at
6 99-0193 Criminal Term. The defendant, George Edwards, is
7 charged with one count of Indecent Assault, a misdemeanor
8 of the second degree. That offense carrying a maximum term
9 of imprisonment of two years and a maximum fine of
10 $5,000.00.
11 It is my understanding here today in court,
12 Your Honor, the defendant intends to waive the filing of
13 criminal Informations in this case, waive formal
14 arraignment, enter a plea of guilty as charged < And the
15 defendant intends to waive a pre-sentence investigation
16
report and request immediate sentence.
The Commonwealth
17 does not oppose any of that.
18
THE COURT: That is correct, Mr. Dowling?
19
MR. DOWLING: Yes, Your Honor.
I understand
20 we have a plea for probation agreement.
21
THE COURT: Dr. Edwards, you are charged
22 with a count of Indecent Assault -- is that the
23 denomination of the offense?
24
MR. SCHWOYER: Yes, Your Honor.
25
THE COURT: As such you are presumed
2
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1 innocent of this charge. The burden of proving your guilt
2 is on the Commonwealth. They would have to establish your
3 guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at a proceeding at which
4 you could have this matter heard by a jury if you chose.
5 Do you understand that?
E
THE DEFENDANT: Yes.
7
THE COURT: You would be involved in the
8 selection of the jury to hear the case with the assistance
9 of your attorney. And after hearing all of the evidence
10 and anything that you had to say, if you chose to say it,
11 all twelve jurors would have to agree before they could
12 convict you. Do you understand that?
13
THE DEFENDANT: Yes.
14
THE COURT: The District Attorney will
15 shortly recite the facts of the case. Do you understand
16 that by entering this plea of guilty you are going to be
17 admitting the statements that he is about to make? Do you
18 understand that?
19
THE DEFENDANT: Yes, sir.
20
THE COURT: Go ahead, Mr. Schwoyer.
21
MR. SCHWOYER: Your Honor, the facts in
22 support of this plea are that on November the 10th, 1998,
23 Barbara Stroup was a patient of -- had an appointment with
24 her family physician, Dr. Edwards, in the Borough of New
25, Cumberland. Following that medical visit while fully
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1 clothed, the defendant was retiring, gave Ms. Stroup a hug.
2 Following that hug he touched her breasts, without her
3 consent, with his hand, for the purpose of his and/or her
4 sexual gratification.
5
THE COURT: Do you have any questions about
6 the nature of the admission in this case?
7
THE DEFENDANT: No, sir.
8
THE COURT: All right. What is the proposed
9 disposition?
10
MR. SCHWOYER: The proposed disposition,
11 Your Honor, is the District Attorney is recommending to the
12 Court that the Court impose a sentence in the standard
13 range. That will be a probationary sentence. The
14 Commonwealth is requesting that the Court consider imposing
15 a fine in this case. And the defendant and the
16 Commonwealth have agreed on a figure for restitution. The
17 defendant specifically does not acknowledge a causal
18 relationship between the finances that I will discuss to
19 the Court in a moment and the act. But by way of agreement
20 and resolving this matter here in court today the defendant
21 has agreed to pay a total of $2,580.40. $2,228.16 to Blue
22 Cross and Blue Shield, and $352.24 to Ms. Stroup. The Blue
23 Cross and Blue Shield amount represents approximately
24 one-half of bills that we have received to date. And
25 that's for reasons we discussed in chambers prior to coming
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into open court today.
The 352.24 represent the victim's
;: share of medication up through today. And we agree that it
3 ends today. The $35.00 she paid for the doctor's visit the
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day of the incident and $130.00 which she incurred as a
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result of having to find a new physician.
6
THE COURT: I didn't write down the number
7 to Blue Cross and Blue Shield, but I assume it is the
El remainder of 2580.40 minus 352.24?
9
MR. SCHWOYER: That's correct.
10
THE COURT: Okay.
11
MR. SCHWOYER: Provided my math was correct.
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THE COURT: I am assuming.
All right. Mr.
13 Dowling, anything you want to add? I should note that I
14 have read the correspondence from physicians John Stoner
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and Raymond Grandon. I have seen some correspondence, much
16 of which was forwarded to the defendant on the occasion of
17 his retirement. And I have also read and carefully
HI considered the letter authored by Barbara Stroup, dated
19 February 21st, 1999. Is there anything you want to add?
20
MR. DOWLING: Yes, Your Honor. Dr. Edwards
21 is seventy-six years old, born in Hummelstown,
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Pennsylvania, has lived here his whole life. He was in the
23 Navy from 1943 to 1985. Graduated from medical school in
24 1952. Interned at the Harrisburg Hospital. He has been in
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private practice in New Cu~berland ever since. He is now
5
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1 fully retired. As of January 1 of '99 his license has
2 lapsed. In fact, right before his retirement he was still
3 treating the very first patient he did in 1954.
4 I have given the Court some cards and
5 letters attesting to his character. Concerning the
6 restitution issue, I think the District Attorney accurately
7 outlined our agreement. The other option, of course, would
8 be is to get the record to determine the causal
9 relationship. I don't think Dr. Edwards nor myself want to
10 put Barb Stroup through that. She has suffered emotional
11 trauma through a number of things that have happened to her
12 in the last year. So we are agreeing based on the
13 agreement that the DA outlined.
14 Dr. Edwards, would you like to address the
15 Court?
16
THE DEFENDANT: Yes, sir. Thank you for
17 this privilege, sir, to address the Court. I will be
18 brief. Mrs. Stroup has been a patient in our group
19 practice for approximately ten years. On her last visit to
20 see me my behavior was unbecoming. And I wish to apologize
21 with all my heart to her and hope she will forgive me.
22 My wife of forty-nine years, who is a very
23 quiet person, is completely aware of this incident. She is
24 equally embarrassed about the whole thing, but she stands
25 wholeheartedly behind me during this very emotional time in
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1. our marriage.
2 Again, Mrs. Stroup, I offer my sincere
3 apologies. I have thoroughly enjoyed my forty-five years
4 of general practice. I could have retired ten or twelve
5 years ago, but I loved patient relationship in taking care
6 of their physical and emotional ills. Thank you, sir.
7 THE COURT: All right. Anything further?
8 MR. DOWLING: No, Your Honor.
9 THE COURT: The plea is accepted and
10 recorded. Sentence of the Court is that the defendant pay
11 the costs of prosecution, undergo probation with
12 supervision for a period of twelve months, that he pay a
13 fine of $750.00 to the use of the County of Cumberland, and
14 that he make restitution in the amount of $2,580.40,
15 $352.24 of which shall be payable to the victim, and the
16 remainder to Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
17 Payment of restitution in this case shall
18 not constitute an admission with respect to the causal
19 relationship between the defendant's act and the amount of
20 financial harm inflicted the victim.
21 Upon the payment of all sums herein due, and
22 provided that the probation Office is otherwise satisfied
23 to do so, termination of probation supervision will be
24 authorized.
25 Anything else?
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MR. SCHWOYICR: No, Your Honor. That's all.
2 THE COURT: I have a number of papers that
3 pertain to this case, perhaps you would like to make them
4 part of the file.
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
MR. SCHWOYER: Yes, sir.
(End of proceedings)
14
15
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17
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19
20
21
22
23
24
25
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CERTIFICATION
I hereby cert~fy that the proceedings are
contained fully and accurately in the notes taken by me on
the abovecause and that this is a correct transcript of
same.
/5/
, J
Barbara E. Graham
Official Stenographer
The foregoing record of the proceedings on
the hearing of the within matter is hereby approved and
directed to be filed.
Date
~I
Kevin A. Hess,J.
Ninth Judicial District
9
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COMMONWEALTH
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
, ,
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V
99-0193 CRIMINAL TERM
CHARGE: INDECENT ASSAULT
GEORGE E. EDWARDS
OTN: F311442-5
AFFIANT: PTL. JOSEPH SPADACCINO
IN RE: GUILTY PLEA & SENTENCING
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 4th day of March, 1999, the
defendant, George E. Edwards, having appeared in open court
together with private counsel, Andrew Dowling, Esquire, and
tendered a plea of guilty, the plea of guilty is accepted and
recorded,
Sentence of the court is that the defendant pay
the costs of prosecution, undergo probation with supervision for
a period of twelve months, that he pay a fine of $750.00 to the
use of the County of Cumberland, and that he make restitution in
the amount of $2,580.40; $352.24 of which shall be payable to
the victim, and the remainder to Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
Payment of restitution in this case shall not constitute an
admission with respect to the causal relationship between the
defendant's act and the amount of financial harm inflicted the
victim. Upon the payment of all sums herein due, and provided
that the Probation Office is otherwise satisfied to do so,
termination of probation supervision will be authorized.
By the Court,
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COMMONWEALTH V. GBORGE E. EDWARDS
Michael Schwoyer, Esquire
Assistant District Attorney
Andrew Dowling, Esquire
For the Defendant
Probation
Victim-Witness Office
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned HEREBY CERTIFIES that true and correct copies of the
foregoing document was served upon all counsel of record this d!!:...- day of
OA'~ ' 2000, by depositing said copy in the United States Mail at
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, postage prepaid, first class delivery, and addressed as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
305 North Front Street
Sixth Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, PA 17108
Counsellor Family Physician Associates. Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, P A 17110-0950
Counselfor George E. Edwards, MD.
R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.c.
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
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GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER TO PLAINTIFFS'
COMPLAINT FILED BY DEFENDANT. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
AND NOW, comes Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D., through his attorney,
Mette, Evans and Woodside, and files this Answer With New Matter to Plaintiffs'
Complaint based on the following:
1. Admitted.
2. Denied. It is admitted that Dr. Edwards resides at 117 Westover Drive,
New Cumberland, PA 17070. The remaining averments are denied. In the Spring of
1998, Dr. Edwards was 76 years old and made a decision to fully retire from the
practice of medicine effective December 31, 1998. On December 31, 1998 Dr.
Edwards did in fact retire from the practice of medicine and thereafter never renewed or
attempted to renew his license to practice medicine.
3. Admitted.
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SUMMARY OF CAUSES OF ACTION
4. Admitted.
5. Denied as stated. On November 10,1998 Plaintiff Barbara Strupe was a
patient of Defendant, F.P.A. and was treated by Dr. Edwards.
6. Denied as stated. Over the previous approximately ten years, Defendant,
Dr. Edwards, performed a pelvic and breast exam on Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, on one
occasion. Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, over a ten year period was examined and treated
by other physicians at Defendant, F.P.A.
7. Admitted.
8. Admitted. By way of further answer, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe remained
fully clothed during the examination for a sinus infection.
9. Denied. Following Dr. Edwards' examination, Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe
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asked Defendant, Dr. Edwards, for a hug since he was retiring.
10. Denied. See response to Paragraph 9.
11, Denied as stated. After Plaintiff Barbara Strupe hugged Dr. Edwards, he
put his hand on her breast while she was fully clothed placing his hand on the outside
of her clothing and then removed his hand. It is denied that Defendant, Dr. Edwards
squeezed her breast.
12. Denied. See response to NO.9. By way of further answer, Defendant,
Dr. Edwards said "do you mind," to which Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe had no response.
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13. Denied. Defendant, Dr. Edwards, was aware that Plaintiff, Barbara
Strupe's son was involved in a fight at a bar involving a knife and there were multiple
jury trials and Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe was critical of the court system.
14. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 14 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required.
15. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 15 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required.
16. It is admitted that Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, did not consent to Dr. Edwards
placing his hand on her breast outside her clothing when she was fully dressed.
17. See response to Paragraph 16. By way of further answer, when Plaintiff
Barbara Strupe requested a hug, Defendant, Dr. Edwards, consented.
18. Admitted.
19. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 19 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegation is
denied.
20.-22. As these allegations are directed to Defendant, Family Practice
Associates, Inc., no response is required by Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D.
23.-25. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendant Dr. Edwards lacks
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of these averments;
the averments are therefore denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial. By
way of further answer, see New Matter at Paragraphs 91 (a)-(i).
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26.-27. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 26 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegations are
denied.
COUNT I
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. ASSAULT
28. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
29.-31. The averments in Paragraphs 29 through 31 are legal conclusions to
which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegations
are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT II
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARD. M.D. BATTERY
32. The response to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
33.-37. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 33 through 37 are legal
conclusions to which no answer is required. If it deemed that an answer is required the
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allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT III
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
INTENTIONAL INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
38. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of the Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
39.-42. The averments in Paragraphs 39 through 42 are legal conclusions to
which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required these
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT IV
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
NEGLIGENT INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
43. The responses to Paragraph 1 through 27 of the Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
44.-49. Denied. The averments in Paragraphs 44 through 49 are legal
conclusions to which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required
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the allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT V
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. v GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
50. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 49 of Plaintiff's Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
51. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 51 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required the allegations are
denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Compiaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT VI
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
VICARIOUS LIABILITY
52.-61. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D., no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
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COUNT VII
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
NEGLIGENCE
62.-74. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
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allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT VIII
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
NEGLIGENT INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
75.-81. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
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in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT IX
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR. v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
82.-83. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
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WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests
judgment in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with
prejudice.
NEW MATTER
84. The Complaint fails to state a cause of action upon which relief can be
granted.
85. Count I of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
86. Count II of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
87. Count III of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
88. Count IV of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
89. Count V of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
90. The Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted for
punitive damages.
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91. Any alleged acts or omission of Defendant, Dr. Edwards, were not a
substantial cause or factor of the subject incident and/or did not result in the inuries
and/or losses alleged by the Plaintiffs.
92. The incident, injuries and/or damages alleged to have been sustained by
the Plaintiffs were not proximately caused by Defendant, Dr. Edwards.
93. It is believed and therefore averred that some or all of the damages
claimed by the Plaintiffs contained in Paragraphs 23,24,25 and 51 were the direct and
proximate result of events and circumstances other than the conduct of Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D., including but not limited to:
(a) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from at least a 10 year history of
anxiety and depression to which treatment has been ongoing.
(b) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, being the victim of a knife attack by her
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son in 1991.
Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from long term abuse by her
sons since 1989 and obtaining a Court Order in February,1999
barring Plaintiff Barbara Strupe's sons from her home.
Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, having financial problems.
Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from medical problems.
Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, sustaining physical abuse by her
ex-husband
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(g) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, experiencing severe stress at her place of
employment.
(h) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, having long term insomnia.
(i) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, "feeling violated" by the media in 1997
and 1998 due to press coverage of three jury trials involving one of
. her sons where her family was betrayed negatively concerning
racial issues surrounding the trials. In addition, the Plaintiff,
Barbara Strupe, has been living in fear since the trials began,
feeling her family may be in danger.
94. Punitive damages are violative of the Due Process and Equal Protection
clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, Section
1983 of Title 42 of the United States Code and Article I, Sections 1, 6, 11 and 26 and
Article V, Section 10(c) of the Pennsylvania Constitution.
95. Punitive damages constitute an unwarranted and unconstitutional
injection of principles of criminal law into this civil action without the constitutional
safeguards, inter alia, of the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt, freedom from
double jeopardy, a defined standard for punishment and a limit thereto, and, by reason
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of the foregoing, are an unconstitutional basis for the taking of Defendant's property
without due process of law.
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
DATED: September;S' 2000
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BY:~~
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court 1.0. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
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VERIFICATION
I, GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D., hereby acknowledge that I am one of the Defendants
in this action; that I have read the foregoing document; and that the facts stated therein are true
,and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
I understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of 18 Pa C.S.
Section 4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
JJ.u"1-"-' e, ~~) f'~J
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
DATED:
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 15TH day of September, 2000, I hereby certify that I am serving
a copy of the foregoing document upon the person(s) and in the manner indicated
below, which service satisfies the requirements of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil
Procedure, by depositing a copy of the same in the United States Mail, Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid, as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
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BY: ~::..----~ ---
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court 1.0. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
DATED: September / j 2000
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1 'TTE. EVANS a: WOODSID'
A :PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
.
HOWELl, C. METTE
ROBERT MOORE
CHARLES B. ZWALLV
PETER J., RESSLER
LLOYD It. PERSUN
CRAIG A. STONE
JAMES A. DLSB
DANIEL IL. SULLIVAN
STEVEN:O. SNYDER
JEFFREY A. ERMCO
KATHRYN L. SIMPSON
P. DANIEL ALTLAND
ANDREW H. DOWLING
MICHAEL D. REED
PAULAJ. LEICHT
GARY J. HElM
DAVID A. FITZSIMONS
GuvP. BENEVENTANO
THOMAS F. SMlDA
JOHN F. YANINEK*
8401 NORTH FRONT STREET
P.O. BOX 5950
HARRisBURG. PA 17110-0950
TELEPHONE
(717) 232-5000
FAX
(71'1) 236-1816
VICKY ANNTRIMMER
TIMOTHY A. HOY
KATHLEEN DOYLE Y ANINEK
JAMES M. STRONG
JENNIJI'ERA. Y ANKANICH
RANDALL G. HURST""
MARKD.HIw
RONALD L. FINCK
SCon C. SEUFERT
OF COUNSEL
JAMES W. EVANS
IRS NO.
23-1985005
http://www.mette.com
.~YLAND BAR
January 29, 2003
Robin Marzella, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
RE: Barbara and James StruDe Y. Georae E. Edwards. M.D. and
Family Physician Associates. I'nc.
Cumberland County; No. 2000-2020
Dear Attorney Marzella:
We are interested in securing selected medical and mental health records as
well as employment records regarding Mrs. Strupe. To that end, enclosed please find 8'
Notice of Intent to Subpoena records from Harrisburg Hospital, Patricia A. Reddy, M.D.,
Sharon R. Frankel, M.D., Abel Temps and Protection Service, Inc.
If we do not receive a response to the Notice within the requisite time period,
these subpoenas will be served.
In addition, I have enclosed authorizations for the release of mental health
records directed to Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center; Holy Spirit
Hospital Outpatient Mental Health, J. K. Moola, M.D., David G. Petkash,M.D.,
Cumberland/Perry Mental Health & Mental Retardation, The Stevens Mental Health
Center, Crisis North, Carlisle Crisis c/o The Stevens Mental Health Center and Dennis
Graybill. An authorization for the release of employment records directed to IBM
Corporation is also enclosed.
Please have Mrs. Strupe sign, date and have witnessed each Authorization.
These fully executed Authorizations should be returned to my attention so that they can
be forwarded to the appropriate health care practitioner or employer.
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January 29, 2003
Page 2
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Thank you in advance for your assistance in facilitating a prompt return of these
fully executed Authorizations.
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Enclosures
Sincerely,
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ANDREW H. DOWLING
cc: Peter J. Curry, Esquire (w/enclosures)
George E. Edwards (w/out enclosures)
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METTE. EVANS & WOODSIDE
APROFEBSIONAL OO~RAT'lON
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
filE COpy
ANDREW H. DOWLING, ESQ. *
8401 NORTH FRONT STREET
Bo. BOX 5950
aA.RRISBURG. PA 17ll0-0950
DIREct DIAL:
(717) 231-528S
IRS NO.
23-1985005
.Certified Civil TrkIl
Advocate by the National
Board ofTrJa/ Advocacy
E-MAIL ADDRESS
Ahldowling@mette.com
TBlLEPRONE
('n'1) 982-6000
"'AX
(71.7) 286-1816
http://www.mette.com
March 4, 2003
RobinJ. Marzella, Esquire
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Re: Edwards:Strupe
Claimant: Barbara Strope
Cumberland County: Civil 00-2020
Dear Ms. Marzella:
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By letter dated January 29, 2003 I sent you a number of authorizations
requesting your client's signature and return of the authorizations. These requests
were referenced in paragraph 3 of the January 29,2003 letter, a copy of which is'
enclosed. You have had these authorizations for a month. Please return the signed
authorizations.
Very truly yours,
cc: George E. Edwards, M.D.
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
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ANDREW H. DOWLING
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this d f" ~ day of April, 2003, I hereby certify that I am serving a
copy of the foregoing document upon the person(s) and in the manner indicated below,
which service satisfies the requirements of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure,
by depositing a copy of the same in the United States Mail, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,
with first-class postage prepaid, as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
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Robin Marzella & Associates
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
DATED: 'I {f' ~ 7
324315 /2, /0-::>
BY:~~~
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court 1.0. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
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DEFENDANT'S MOTION TO COMPEL Z ,oo
PURSUANT TO CUMBERLAND COUNTY LOCAL RULE 4001-1 ~ <.r'>
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
AND NOW, comes Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D., by his attorneys,
Mette, Evans and Woodside, and files this Motion to Compel pursuant to Cumberland
County Local Rule 4001-1, based on the following:
1. The above captioned matter is a civil action brought by Piaintiff, Barbara
Strupe and her husband against Dr. Edwards and his former practice as a result of
improper touching during an examination of Barbara Strupe by Dr. Edwards, resulting in
alleged emotional distress and other psychological damages to Plaintiff, Barbara
Strupe.
2. As pled in the Complaint, Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe has put her mental,
emotional and psychological health at issue. Complaint attached as Exhibit "A".
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3. In his Answer With New Matter, Dr. Edwards has questioned whether
Plaintiff's alleged emotional, mental and psychological harm is related to his conduct or
other circumstances in the Plaintiff's life, including Barbara Strupe suffering from a ten
year history of anxiety and depression to which treatment has been ongoing; Plaintiff,
Barbara Strupe being the victim of a knife attack by her son; Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe
suffering other abuse by her sons, resulting in a Court Order protecting Plaintiff,
Barbara Strupe from her sons; Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe suffering from financial
problems and other physical/medical problems; Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe suffering from
physical abuse by her ex-husband; Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe suffering severe stress at
her place of employment and Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe feeling "violated" by the news
media due to press coverage of jury trials involving her son, where her son and family
were betrayed negatively concerning racial issues surrounding the trials. Defendant's
Answer With New Matter attached as Exhibit "B",
4. Therefore, as contained in Plaintiff's Complaint and in Defendant Edwards
Answer, clearly Plaintiff's emotional, mental and psychological health is at issue and the
causation of such damages.
5. By letter dated January 29, 2003, Defendant Edwards sent Plaintiff
authorization for release of mental health records directed to:
(a) Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center
(b) Holy Spirit Hospital Out Patient Mental Health
(c) J. K. Moola, M.D.
(d) David G. Petkash, M.D.
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(e) Cumberland/Perry Mental Health and Mental
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(f) Stevens Mental Health Center
(g) Crisis North
(h) Carlisle Crisis, clo Stevens Mental Health Center
(i) Dennis Graybill
January 29, 2003 correspondence attached hereto as Exhibit "C". An authorization
was also sent for release of employment records directed to IBM Corporation.
6. By letter dated March 4, 2003, Defendant Edwards again requested
Plaintiff provide signed authorizations. Correspondence attached as Exhibit "0".
7. Plaintiff failed to respond to the March 4,2003 correspondence.
8. ' Defendant Edwards through counsel attempted to again contact Plaintiffs
attorney and did so by a telephone call on April 14, 2003 and left a message
concerning the authorizations. The phone call was not returned.
9. Plaintiffs are represented by Robin J. Marzella, Esq. of R.J. Marzella &
Associates, P.C., 3513 North Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17110.
Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. is represented by Andrew H.
Dowling, Esq. of Mette, Evans & Woodside, 3401 N. Front St., Harrisburg, Pa 17110.
Defendant, Family Physicians Associates, Inc. i~ represented by Peter
Curry, Esq. of Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, 305 N. Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17101.
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WHEREFORE, Defendant Edwards requests this Court to order Plaintiff to sign
authorizations enumerated in Paragraph 5.
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
DATED: y ~ '" ~3
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Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court I.D. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
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,I BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
I Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
I Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66856
I 3513 North Front Street
, Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Fac.imile: (717) 234-6883
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTlON - LAW
I
] BARBARA O. STRUPE and
, JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
; Plaintiffs
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: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
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I GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
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JURY TRlAL DEMANDED
NOTICE TO DEFEND
NOTICE
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. rfyou wish to defend against the claims
set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this
Complaint and Notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by
attorney and filing in writing with the Court your defense or objections to the claims set
forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without
you and a judgment may be entered against you by the Court without further notice for any
money claimed in the Complaint or for any claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You
may lose money or property or other rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LA WYER AT ONCE, IF YOU
DO NOT HAVE A LA WYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE
THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL
HELP.
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Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, Pennsylvania
(717) 249-3166
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I demandas expuestas en las paginas siguintes, usted tiene viente (20) dias de plaza al partir
, de la fecha de la demanda y la nontificacion. Usted debe presentar una apariencia escrita 0
en persona 0 por abogado y archivar en la corte en forma escrita sus defensas 0 sus
objectiones a las demandas en contta de su p esona. Sea avisado que si usted no se
defiende, la corte tomara medidas y puede entrar una orden contra usted sin previo aviso 0
notificacion y por cualquier queja 0 alivio que es pedido en la peticion de demanda. Usted
pueda perder dinero 0 sus propiedades 0 otros derechos importantes para usted.
NOTICIA
LLEVE ESTA DEMAND!, A UN ABODAGO lNMEDIATAMENTA. Sl NO
TIENE ABOGADO 0 81 NO TIENE EL DINERO SUFICIENTE DE P AGAR TAL
SERVICIO, V A Y A EN PERSONA 0 LLAME POR TELEFONO A LA LFICINA CUY A
DIRECCION 8E ENCUENTRA ESCRIT A ABAJO PARA A VERIGUAR DONDE SE
: PEUDE CONSEGUlR ASISTENCIA LEGAL.
Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, Pennsylvania
(717) 249-3166
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.c.
Dated:
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I R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
, ,BY: Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
, Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No. 66122
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Supreme Court I.D. No, 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-6883
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strupe and
James G. Strupe, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
F AMIL Y PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
COMPLAINT
Parties to the Action
I. Plaintiffs Barbara O. Strupe and James G. Strupe, Jr., husband and wife, are
adult individuals, sui juris, residing at 16 Campbell Place, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 170 II.
2. Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D., is a physician duly licensed to
practice medicine in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with a residence address of 117
Westover Drive, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania 17070.
3. Defendant Family Physician Associates, Inc. ("FP A"), is a healthcare
facility duly organized and existing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
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with a principle place of business at 1900 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania
17070.
Summary ofthe Causes of Action
4. On November 10, 1998, Dr. Edwards was employed by Defendant FP A as a
family physician.
5. On November 10, 1998, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe was a patient of
Defendant George E. Edwards, M.D., and had been a patient of FP A for approximately ten
years.
6. Over the previous approximate ten years, Defendant Dr. Edwards had
provided gynecological care to Plaintiff Barbara Strupe, including pelvic and breast exams
7; On November 10, 1998, Mrs. Strupe had an appointment with Dr. Edwards
for complaints related to a sinus infection.
8. Dr. Edwards' examination and treatment of Mrs. Strupe on November 10,
1998, occurred behind closed doors with no one else present besides Dr. Edwards and Mrs.
Strupe.
9. Following Dr. Edwards' examination of Mrs. Strupe on November 10,
1998, he asked Mrs. Strupe for a "hug."
10. As a courtesy because of their longstanding professional relationship, Mrs.
Strupe complied with Dr. Edwards' request for a "hug."
11. While Dr. Edwards was "hugging" Mrs. Strupe, he reached out and grabbed
her breast, squeezing it several times before Mrs. Strupe was able to pull away from him.
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12. Immediately before or during the iime that he was squeezing Mrs. Strope's
breast, Dr. Edwards stated to her, "You are all mine," or something similar.
13. At the time of his conduct as described above, Dr. Edwards knew or should
have known of Mrs. Strupe' s fragile emotional state resulting from familial and/or
financial stressors she had been experiencing.
14. Dr. Edwards' conduct referenced in Paragraphs 9,11 and 12 constitutes
intentional conduct.
15. Dr. Edwards' conduct referenced in Paragraphs 9, 11 and 12 constitutes an
assault and battery on the person of Mrs. Strupe.
16. At no time did Plaintiff Barbara Strupe consent to the offensive touching
referenced above.
17. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
Paragraph, to the extent Mrs. Strupe consented to the "hug," the consent went no further
and specifically did not excuse further offensive touching by Dr. Edwards, including his
grabbing her breast.
18. As a result of his conduct on November 10, 1998, Dr. Edwards pleaded
guilty to the charge of Indecent Assault as a result of criminal proceedings brought against
him in Cumberland County, Docket No. 99-0193. (The transcript of the guilty plea is
attached hereto as Exhibit A.)
19. As described more fully below, Defendant Dr. Edwards' conduct was
reckless, wanton and intentional, warranting the award of punitive damages.
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20. As described more fully below, Defendant FP A was negligent in its
supervision and/or hiring of Dr. Edwards, and was negligent in superrising other members
of its staff, who were available or should have been available to be present in rooms during
examinations of female patients by male physicians.
21. Upon information and belief, Defendant FP A knew or had reason to know
of Dr. Edwatds' propensity to sexually batter its patients; and generally knew or had
reason to know of the risk of male employees sexually battering its patients.
22. Also as described more fully below, Defendant FP A was negligent in not
implementing policies and procedures, or enforcing those already in place, to prevent or
curtail such offensive touching as that conunitted by Dr. Edwards.
23. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
above and in greater detail below, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe has suffered inunediate and
substantial physical and mental harm, including severe emotional distress, headaches;
insomnia, tremors, anxiety and other psychological and emotional harm, requiring
psychological counseling and other medical treatment--past present and future, for all of
which damages are claimed.
24. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
,above and in greater detail below, Plaintiffs have incurred medical expenses-past, present
and future, for all of which damages are claimed.
25. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendants, as described
above and in greater detail below, Mrs. Strupe has suffered lost earnings, a lost earning
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continue into the future, and for all of which damages are claimed.
26. The conduct of Defendants increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries described to Plaintiffs.
27. The Defendants are jointly and severally liable for the harms, injuries, and
damages sustained by the Plaintiffs.
COUNT I
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Assault
28. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
29. At the time of his conduct, Dr. Edwards knew or reasonably should have
known that his conduct would put Mrs. Strupe in reasonable and immediate apprehension
of a harmful or offensive contact with his body, and such apprehension was in fact caused.
30. The conduct of Dr. Edwards as described above was intentional and
reckless, conducted in complete disregard of a risk of harm to Mrs. Strupe which he knew
or should have known to be highly probable, and with a conscious indifference to the
consequences.
31. As a direct and proximate result of Dr. Edward's conduct, Plaintiffs have
suffered the injuries and harms described above in Paragraphs 23-25, for all of which
damages are claimed.
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WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT II
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Battery
32. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1- 27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
'33. At the time of Dr. Edwards' conduct as described above, Defendant acted
with an intent to cause a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe, and his
conduct in fact resulted in a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe.
34. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
Paragraph, Dr. Edwards acted with an intent to put Mrs. Strupe in reasonable and
immediate apprehension of a harmful or offensive contact with his body, and his conduct
in fact resulted in a harmful or offensive contact with the body of Mrs. Strupe.
35. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, and the harmful or offensive contact actually
resulting to the body of Mrs. Strupe, would offend a reasonable person's personal sense of
dignity.
36. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
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above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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37. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT III
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
38. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
39. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, as described above, goes beyond all possible
bounds of decency and is such as would be regarded as atrocious and utterly intolerable in
a civilized community.
40. The conduct of Dr. Edwards, as described above, was extreme and
outrageous, and intentionally or recklessly caused severe emotional distress, other highly
unpleasant mental reactions, and immediate and substantial bodily harm resulting from
severe emotional distress to Mrs. Strupe.
41. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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42. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of$25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT IV
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress
43. The allegations contained ip Paragraphs 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
44. As her family physician, Dr. Edwards had a fiduciary duty toward his
patient, Barbara Strupe.
45. As described above, the conduct of Dr. Edwards caused Mrs. Strupe to
suffer a physical impact.
46. At the time of Dr. Edwards' conduct as described above, Mrs. Strupe was in
a zone of danger and at risk of an immediate physical and emotional injury.
47. As a direct and proximate result of Dr. Edward's conduct, Plaintiff Barbara
Strupe indeed suffered immediate and substantial physical harm, as alleged above.
48. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
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49. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT V
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. vs. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
Loss of Consortium
50. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-49 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set furth.
51. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of the Defendant, George E.
Edwards, M.D., as described above, Plaintiff James G. Strupe, Jr. has been deprived of the
care, companionship and services of his wife, Barbara O. Strupe, for all of which damages
are claimed.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT VI
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
Vicarious Liability
52. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-49 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
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53. Dr. Edwards had long been employed by Defendant FP A and in that
capacity acted as Mrs. Strupe's family physician, and had gained her trust and friendship in
that connection.
54. Dr. Edwards' employment with FP A permitted him opportunities for
personal and physical contact with Mrs. Strupe.
55. Dr. Edwards' close physical contact with Mrs. Strupe and other patients was
not only necessary for the nature of his employment with FP A, but it was encouraged as
well by FP A.
56. Whether expressly condoned or not by FP A, Dr. Edwards and other
healthcare employees at the practice were encouraged or permitted to initiate friendly,
close and personal contact with patients.
57. Such friendly, close and personal relationships between the healthcare
employees, including Dr. Edwards, and patients ofFP A would facilitate the exchange of
information between physician and patient, thus benefiting the physician-patient
relationship.
58. The nature and scope of Dr. Edward's employment with FP A, thus included
the cultivation of friendly, close and personal relationships with his patients.
59. Dr. Edwards' close physical contact with Mrs. Strupe and his sexual assault
and battery of her thus may have been actuated by a purpose of serving his employer.
60. In the event Dr. Edwards' sexual assault and battery of Mrs. Strupe was
actuated by a purpose of serving his employer, then FP A is vicariously liable for the
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conduct of Dr. Edwards, which conduct occurred within the nature and scope of his
employment with FP A, and the harm and damages caused to the Plaintiffs.
61. Furthermore, Dr. Edwards' conduct may have been foreseeable by FP A, by
either its knowledge or reason to know of Dr. Edwards' propensity to sexually harass,
assault or batter its patients.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000. exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT VII
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
Negligence
62. The allegations contained in Paragraph 1-27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are
incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
63. At the relevant times stated in this Complaint, Barbara Strupe was receiving
medical care and treatment from F? A and Dr. Edwards, who was FP A's actual or
ostensible agent, servant, and/or employee.
64. Upon information and belief, FP A knew or should have known of previous
incidents of inappropriate sexual conduct or contact by Dr. Edwards with patients other
than Barbara Strupe.
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65. Upon information and belief, previous incidents of inappropriate sexual
conduct or contact by Dr. Edwards had been reported to or known of by employees and/or
managerial staff of FP A.
66. Upon information and belief, Dr. Edwards and other male healthcare
providers at FP A were permitted to see and/or examine female patients in their offices or
in examination rooms without the presence of a third party, and were able to do so behind
closed doors.
67. Upon information and belief, there was no policy in place at FP A to prevent
conduct such as that engaged in by Dr. Edwards and as described above.
68. In the alternative to the allegations contained in the immediately preceding
Paragraph of this Complaint, to the extent such a policy or program existed, it was not
enforced or followed.
69. Defendant FP A had a duty to prevent harm to its patients such as that
experienced by Barbara Strupe, and a duty to control and oversee its staff and employees to
prevent conduct such as that committed by Dr. Edwards--detailed above, and was negligent
in the following particulars:
(a) failing to take appropriate steps to prevent additional incidents of
sexual assault, battery, harassment or other sexually inappropriate conduct by Dr.
Edwards when FP A knew or had reason to know of previous incidents involving
such conduct by Dr. Edwards;
(b) permitting Dr. Edwards to continue seeing patients, particularly
female patients, on its premises when it knew or had reason to know of previous
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incidents of sexual assault, battery, harassment or other sexually inappropriate
conduct by Dr. Edwards;
(c) failing to ensure the presence of a third party in the examination
room or office when Dr. Edwards or other male healthcare providers were seeing
female patients;
(d) failing to ensure that the door to the examination room or office
remained open or ajar while Dr. Edwards or other male healthcare providers were
seeing female patients;
(e) failing to have in place a policy or program addressing or
prohibiting sexual harassment, assault and/or battery of patients;
(f) failing to implement or enforce existing policies or programs
designed or intended to prevent sexual assault, battery and/or harassment of
patients at the hands of healthcare providers on its premises;
(g) failing to adequately or appropriately inquire into or investigate Dr.
Edward's history or background when he first applied for employment, which
investigation or inquiry, upon information and belief, would have revealed a
propensity for such conduct as described above;
(h) in the altemative to the allegations contained in the immediately
preceding subparagraph, hiring Dr. Edwards (or continuing his employment) when
FP A knew or should have known of Dr. Edwards' propensity for such conduct as
described above, which hiring (or continuation of employment) constitutes reckless
conduct; and
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(i) failing to appropriately supervise and/or control its staff and
employees to ensure that sexual harassment, assault or battery of its patients did not
occur.
70. Dr. Edwards' reprehensible conduct occurred upon premises in possession
ofFPA, and upon which Dr. Edwards was privileged to enter only as its servant, and FPA
knew or had reason to know of its ability to control its servant, and knew or should have
known of the necessity and opportunity for exercising that controL
71. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
72. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
73. In light of its knowledge or reason to know of previous incidents of sexual
assault, battery, harassment or other inappropriate sexual conduct of Dr. Edwards directed
towards its patients, FP A's conduct described above was outrageous and its actions or
failure to act were done with a reckless disregard for the welfare and safety of its patients,
including Barbara Strupe.
74. In light of its knowledge or reason to know of previous incidents of sexual
assault, battery, harassment or other inappropriate sexual conduct of Dr. Edwards directed
towards its patients, Dr. Edwards' conduct alleged above was foreseeable to FP A.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
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excess of$25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law, and punitive
damages as well.
COUNT VIII
BARBARA O. STRUPE vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress
75. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27,62-74 of Plaintiffs'
Complaint are incorporated herein as iffully set forth.
76. As the provider of her family healthcare needs, FPA had a special
relationship with, and a fiduciary duty toward its patient, Barbara Strupe.
77. As described above, the conduct of FP A caused Mrs. Strupe to suffer a
physical impact in the nature of the offensive touching committed by Dr. Edwards,
resulting in immediate and significant physical and mental harm.
78. At the time ofFPA's conduct detailed above, Mrs. Strupe was in a zone of
danger and at risk of an immediate physical and emotional injury.
79. As a direct and proximate result of FP A's conduct, Plaintiff Barbara Strope
indeed suffered immediate and substantial physical harm, as alleged above.
80. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of Defendant as described
above, Plaintiffs have suffered the injuries and harms described in Paragraphs 23-25, for
all of which damages are claimed.
81. The conduct of Defendant increased the risk and was a substantial factor in
causing the injuries and harms resulting to Plaintiffs.
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WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
COUNT IX
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR. vs. FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.
Loss of Consortium
82. The allegations contained in Paragraphs 1-27,62-81 of Plaintiffs'
Complaint are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
83. As a direct and proximate result of the conduct of the Defendant, FP A, as
described above, Plaintiff James G. Strupe, Jr. has been deprived of the care,
companionship and services of his wife, Barbara O. Strupe, for all of which damages are
claimed.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs demand judgment against Defendant in an amount in
excess of $25,000, exclusive of interest and costs thereon as allowed by law.
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
By:
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J S. Barnett, Esquire
Attorney Identification No. 66122
Dated: R It "- !,-J-IJ7)D
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COMMONWEALTH
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V.
99-0193 CRIMINAL TERM
CHARGE: INDECENT ASSAULT
GEORGE E. EDWARDS
OTN: F311442-5
AFFIANT: PTL. JOSEPH SPADACCINO
IN RE: GUILTY PLEA & SENTENCING PROCEEDINGS
Proceedings held before the
HONORABLE KEVIN A. HESS, J.,
Cumberland County Courthouse,
Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on
Thursday, March 4, 1999,
in Courtroom Number 4.
APPEARANCES:
MICHAEL SCHWOYER, Esquire
Assistant District Attorney
For the Commonwealth
ANDREW DOWLING, Esquire
For the Defendant
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MR. SCHWOYER: Good afternoon, Your Honor.
MR. DOWLING: Good afternoon.
THE COURT: Good afternoon.
MR. SCHWOYER: This case is Commonwealth
5 verSU$ George E. Edwards, docketed in the Clerks office at
6 99-0193 Criminal Term. The defendant, George Edwards, is
7 charged with one count of Indecent Assault, a misdemeanor
8 of the second degree. That offense carrying a maximum term
9 of imprisonment of two years and a maximum fine of
10 $5,000.00.
11 It is my understanding here today in court,
12 Your Bonor, the defendant intends to waive the filing of
13 criminal Informations in this case, waive formal
14 arraignment, enter a plea of guilty as charged. And the
15 defendant intends to waive a pre-sentence investigation
16 report and request immediate sentence. The Commonwealth
17 does not oppose any of that.
18 THE COURT: That is correct, Mr. Dowling?
19 MR. DOWLING: Yes, Your Honor. I understand
20 we have a plea for probation agreement.
21 THE COURT: Dr. Edwards, you are charged
22 with a count of Indecent Assault -- is that the
23 denomination of the offense?
24 MR. SCHWOYER: Yes, Your Honor.
25 THE COURT: As such you are presumed
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innocent of this charge. The burden of proving your guilt
is on the Commonwealth. They would have to establish your
guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at a proceeding at which
you could have this matter heard by a jury if you chose.
Do you understand that?
THE DEFENDANT: Yes.
THE COURT: You would be involved in the
selection of the jury to hear the case with the assistance
of your attorney. And after hearing all of the evidence
and anything that you had to say, if you chose to say it,
all twelve jurors would have to agree before they could
convict you. Do you understand that?
THE DEFENDANT: Yes.
THE COURT: The District Attorney will
shortly recite the facts of the case. Do you understand
that by entering this plea of guilty you are going to be
admitting the statements that he is about to make? Do you
understand that?
THE DEFENDANT: Yes, sir.
THE COURT: Go ahead, Mr. Schwoyer.
MR. SCHWOYER: Your Honor, the facts in
support of this plea are that on November the 10th, 1998,
Barbara Stroup was a patient of -- had an appointment with
her family physician, Dr. Edwards, in the Borough of New
Cumberland. Following that medical visit while fully
3
1 clothed, the defendant was retiring, gave Ms. Stroup a hug.
2 Following that hug he touched her breasts, without her
3 consent, with his hand, for the purpose of his and/or her
4 sexual gratification.
5
THE COURT: Do you have any questions about
6 the nature of the admission in this case?
7
THE DEFENDANT: No, sir.
8
THE COURT: All right. What is the proposed
9 disposition?
10
MR. SCHWOYER: The proposed disposition,
11 Your Honor, is the District Attorney is recommending to the
12 Court that the Court impose a sentence in the standard
13 range. That will be a probationary sentence. The
14 Commonwealth is requesting that the Court consider imposing
15 a fine in this case. And the defendant and the
16 Commonwealth have agreed on a figure for restitution. The
17 defendant specifically does not acknowledge a causal
18 relationship between the finances that I will discuss to
19 the Court in a moment and the act. But by way of agreement
20 and resolving this matter here in court today the defendant
21 has agreed to pay a total of $2,580.40. $2,228.16 to Blue
22 Cross and Blue Shield, and $352.24 to Ms. Stroup. The Blue
23 Cross and Blue Shield amount represents approximately
24 one-half of bills that we have received to date. And
25 that's for reasons we discussed in chambers prior to coming
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into open court today.
The 352.24 represent the victim's
2 share of medication up through today. And we agree that it
:3 ends today. The $35.00 she paid for the doctor's visit the
4, day of the incident and $130.00 which she incurred as a
:; result of having to find a new physician.
6
THE COURT: I didn't write down the number
7 to Blue Cross and Blue Shield, but I assume it is the
e remainder of 2580.40 minus 352.24?
5'
MR. SCHWOYER: That's correct.
THE COURT: Okay.
MR. SCHWOYER: Provided my math was correct.
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THE COURT: I am assuming.
All right. Mr.
13 Dowling, anything you want to add? I should note that I
14 have read the correspondence from physicians John Stoner
15 and Raymond Grandon. I have seen some correspondence, much
16 of which was forwarded to the defendant on the occasion of
17 his retirement. And I have also read and carefully
18 considered the letter authored by Barbara Stroup, dated
19 February 21st, 1999. Is there anything you want to add?
20
MR. DOWLING: Yes, Your Honor. Dr. Edwards
21 is seventy-six years old, born in Hummelstown,
22 Pennsylvania, has lived here his whole life. He was in the
23 Navy from 1943 to 1985. Graduated from medical school in
24 1952. Interned at the Harrisburg Hospital. He has been in
25 private practice in New Cumberland ever since. He is now
5
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1 fully retired. As of January 1 of '99 his license has
2 lapsed. In fact, right before his retirement he was still
3 treating the very first patient he did in 1954.
4 I have given the Court some cards and
5 letters attesting to his character. Concerning the
6 restitution issue, I think the District Attorney accurately
7 outlined our agreement. The other option, of course, would
8 be is to get the record to determine the causal
9 relationship. I don't think Dr. Edwards nor myself want to
10 put Barb Stroup through that. She has suffered emotional
11 trauma through a number of things that have happened to her
12 in the last year. So we are agreeing based on the
13 agreement that the DA outlined.
14 Dr. Edwards, would you like to address the
15 Court?
16 THE DEFENDANT: Yes, sir. Thank you for
17 this privilege, sir, to address the Court. I will be
18 brief. Mrs. Stroup has been a patient in our group
19 practice for approximately ten years. On her last visit to
20 see me my behavior was unbecoming. And I wish to apologize
21 with all my heart to her and hope she will forgive me.
22 My wife of forty-nine years, who is a very
23 quiet person, is completely aware of this incident. She is
24 equally embarrassed about the whole thing, but she stands
25 wholeheartedly behind me during this very emotional time in
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lour marriage.
2 Again, Mrs. Stroup, I offer my sincere
3 apologies. I have thoroughly enjoyed my forty-five years
4 of general practice. I could have retired ten or twelve
5 years ago, but I loved patient relationship in taking care
6 of their physical and emotional ills. Thank you, sir.
7 THE COURT: All right. Anything further?
8 MR. DOWLING: No, Your Honor.
9 THE COURT: The plea is accepted and
10 recorded. Sentence of the Court is that the defendant pay
11 the costs of prosecution, undergo probation with
12 supervision for a period of twelve months, that he pay a
13 fine of $750.00 to the use of the County of Cumberland, and
14 that he make restitution in the amount of $2,580.40,
15 $352.24 of which shall be payable to the victim, and the
16 remainder to Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
17 Payment of restitution in this case shall
18 not constitute an admission with respect to the causal
19 relationship between the defendant's act and the amount of
20 financial harm inflicted the victim.
21 Upon the payment of all sums herein due, and
22 provided that the probation Office is otherwise satisfied
23 to do so, termination of probation supervision will be
24 authorized.
25 Anything else?
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1 MR. SCHWOYER: No, Your Honor. That's all.
2 THE COURT: I have a number of papers that
3 pertain to this case, perhaps you would like to make them
4 part of the file.
5 MR. SCHWOYER: Yes, sir.
6 (End of proceedings)
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CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the proceedings are
contained fully and accurately in the notes taken by me on
the abovecause and that this is a correct transcript of
same.
/s/
, J
Barbara E. Graham
Official Stenographer
The foregoing record of the proceedings on
the hearing of the within matter is hereby approved and
directed to be filed.
Date
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COMMONWEALTH
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
V
99-0193 CRIMINAL TERM
CHARGE: INDECENT ASSAULT
GEORGE E. EDWARDS
OTN: F311442-5
AFFIANT: PTL. JOSEPH SPADACCINO
IN RE: GUILTY PLEA & SENTENCING
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this 4th day of March, 1999, the
defendant, George E. Edwards, having appeared in open court
together with private counsel, Andrew Dowling, Esquire, and
tendered a plea of guilty, the plea of guilty is accepted and
recorded,
Sentence of the court is that the defendant pay
the costs of prosecution, undergo probation with supervision for
a period of twelve months, that he pay a fine of $750.00 to the
use of the County of Cumberland, and that he make restitution in
the amount of $2,580.40; $352.24 of which shall be payable to
the victim, and the remainder to Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
Payment of restitution in this case shall not constitute an
admission with respect to the causal relationship between the
defendant's act and the amount of financial harm inflicted the
victim. Upon the payment of all sums herein due, and provided
that the Probation Office is otherwise satisfied to do so,
termination of probation supervision will be authorized.
By the Court,
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COMMONWEALTH ~. GeORGE E. EDWARDS
Michael Schwoyer, Esquire
A$sistant District Attorney
Andrew. Dowling, Esquire
For the Defendant
Probation
Victim-Witness Office
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned HEREBY CERTIFIES that true and correct copies of the
foregoing document was served upon all counsel of record this ~ day of
OA'~' 2000, by depositing said copy in the United States Mail at
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, postage prepaid, first class delivery, and addressed as follows:
Peter 1. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER., LLP
305 North Front Street
Sixth Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, P A 17108
Counsel for Family Physician Associates, Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, P A 17110-0950
Counselfor George E. Edwards, MD.
R. 1. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
By:
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
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GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER TO PLAINTIFFS'
COMPLAINT FILED BY DEFENDANT. GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
AND NOW, comes Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D., through his attorney,
Mette, Evans and Woodside, and files this Answer With New Matter to Plaintiffs'
Complaint based on the following:
1. Admitted.
2. Denied. It is admitted that Dr. Edwards resides at 117 Westover Drive,
New Cumberland, PA 17070. The remaining averments are denied. In the Spring of
1998, Dr. Edwards was 76 years old and made a decision to fully retire from the
practice of medicine effective December 31, 1998. On December 31, 1998 Dr.
Edwards did in fact retire from the practice of medicine and thereafter never renewed or
attempted to renew his license to practice medicine.
3. Admitted.
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SUMMARY OF CAUSES OF ACTION
4. Admitted.
5. Denied as stated. On November 10, 1998 Plaintiff Barbara Strups was a
patient of Defendant, F.PA and was treated by Dr. Edwards.
6. Denied as stated. Over the previous approximately ten years, Defendant,
Dr. Edwards, performed a pelvic and breast exam on Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, on one
occasion. Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, over a ten year period was examined and treated
by other physicians at Defendant, F.P.A.
7. Admitted.
8. Admitted. By way of further answer, Plaintiff Barbara Strupe remained
fully clothed during the examination for a sinus infection.
9. Denied. Following Dr. Edwards' examination, Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe
asked Defendant, Dr. Edwards, for a hug since he was retiring.
10. Denied. See response to Paragraph 9.
11. Denied as stated. After Plaintiff Barbara Strupe hugged Dr. Edwards, he
put his hand on her breast while she was fully clothed placing his hand on the outside
of her clothing and then removed his hand. It is denied that Defendant, Dr. Edwards
squeezed her breast.
12. Denied. See response to No.9. By way of further answer, Defendant,
Dr. Edwards said "do you mind," to which Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe had no response.
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13. Denied. Defendant, Dr. Edwards, was aware that Plaintiff, Barbara
Strupe's son was involved in a fight at a bar involving a knife and there were multiple
jury trials and Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe was critical of the court system.
14. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 14 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required.
15. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 15 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required.
16. It is admitted that Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, did not consent to Dr. Edwards
placing his hand on her breast outside her clothing when she was fully dressed.
17. See response to Paragraph 16. By way of further answer; when Plaintiff
Barbara Strupe requested a hug, Defendant, Dr. Edwards, consented.
18. Admitted.
19. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 19 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegation is
denied.
20.-22. As these allegations are directed to Defendant, Family Practice
Associates, Inc., no response is required by Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D.
23.-25. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendant Dr. Edwards lacks
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of these averments;
the averments are therefore denied and strict proof thereof is demanded at trial. By
way of further answer, see New Matter at Paragraphs 91(a)-(i).
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26.-27. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 26 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegations are
denied.
COUNT I
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. ASSAULT
28. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
29.-31. The averments in Paragraphs 29 through 31 are legal conclusions to
which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required, the allegations
are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT \I
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARD. M.D. BATTERY
32. The response to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
33.-37. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 33 through 37 are legal
conclusions to which no answer is required. If it deemed that an answer is required the
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allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT III
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
INTENTIONAL INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
38. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 27 of the Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
39.-42. The averments in Paragraphs 39 through 42 are legal conclusions to
which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required these
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment in his
favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT IV
BARBARA O. STRUPE v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
NEGLIGENT INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
43. The responses to Paragraph 1 through 27 of the Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
44.-49. Denied. The averments in Paragraphs 44 through 49 are legal
conclusions to which no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required
,
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the allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT V
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. v GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D.
LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
50. Responses to Paragraphs 1 through 49 of Plaintiffs Complaint are
incorporated herein by reference.
51. Denied. The averments in Paragraph 51 are legal conclusions to which
no answer is required. If it is deemed that an answer is required the allegations are
denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT VI
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
VICARIOUS LIABILITY
52.-61. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D., no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiffs Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
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COUNT VII
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
NEGLIGENCE
62.-74. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, MD. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT VIII
BARBARA O. STRUPE v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
NEGLIGENT INFLICTION OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
75.-81. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests judgment
in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with prejudice.
COUNT IX
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR. v FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES. INC.
LOSS OF CONSORTIUM
82.-83. As these averments are directed to a defendant other than George E.
Edwards, M.D. no response is required. If it is deemed that a response is required the
allegations are denied.
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WHEREFORE, Defendant, George E. Edwards, M.D. requests
judgment in his favor against Plaintiff and that Plaintiff's Complaint be dismissed with
prejudice.
NEW MA TIER
84. The Complaint fails to state a cause of action upon which relief can be
granted.
85. Count I of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
86. Count II of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
87. Count III of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
. granted.
88. Count IV of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
89. Count V of the Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be
granted.
90. The Complaint fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted for
punitive damages.
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91, Any alleged acts or omission of Defendant, Dr. Edwards, were not a
substantial cause or factor of the subject incident and/or did not result in the inuries
and/or losses alleged by the Plaintiffs.
92. The incident, injuries and/or damages alleged to have been sustained by
the Plaintiffs were not proximately caused by Defendant, Dr. Edwards.
93. It is believed and therefore averred that some or all of the damages
claimed by the Plaintiffs contained in Paragraphs 23, 24, 25 and 51 were the direct and
proximate result of events and circumstances other than the conduct of Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D., including but not limited to:
(a) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from at least a 10 year history of
anxiety and depression to which treatment has been ongoing.
(b) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, being the victim of a knife attack by her
son in 1991.
(c) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from long term abuse by her
sons since 1989 and obtaining a Court Order in February,1999
barring Plaintiff Barbara Strupe's sons from her home.
(d) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, having financial problems.
(e) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, suffering from medical problems.
(f) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, sustaining physical abuse by her
ex-husband
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(g) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, experiencing severe stress at her place of
employment.
(h) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, having long term insomnia.
(i) Plaintiff, Barbara Strupe, "feeling violated" by the media in 1997
and 1998 due to press coverage of three jury trials involving one of
her sons where her family was betrayed negatively concerning
racial issues surrounding the trials. In addition, the Plaintiff,
Barbara Strupe, has been living in fear since the trials began,
feeling her family may be in danger.
94. Punitive damages are violative of the Due Process and Equal Protection
clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, Section
1983 of Title 42 of the United States Code and Article I, Sections 1,6, 11 and 26 and
Article V, Section 10(c) of the Pennsylvania Constitution.
95. Punitive damages constitute an unwarranted and unconstitutional
injection of principles of criminal law into this civil action without the constitutional
safeguards, inter alia, of the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt, freedom from
double jeopardy, a defined standard for punishment and a limit thereto, and, by reason
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of the foregoing, are an unconstitutional basis for the taking of Defendant's property
without due process of law.
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
DATED: September IS" 2000
BY:~~
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court I.D. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
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VERIFICATION
I, GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D., hereby acknowledge that I am one of the Defendants
in this action; that I have read the foregoing document; and that the facts stated therein are true
and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
I understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of 18 Pa C.S.
Section 4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
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GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.
DATED:
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this 15TH day of September, 2000, I hereby certify that I am serving
a copy of the foregoing document upon the person( s) and in the manner indicated
below, which service satisfies the requirements of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil
Procedure, by depositing a copy of the same in the United States Mail, Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania, with first-class postage prepaid, as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Jan S. Barnett, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
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BY: ~--- --
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court J.D. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
_.
DATED: September / j 2000
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1 'TTE. EVANS .81: WOODSID'
A PROFEsSIONAL CORPORATION
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
HOWELL C. METTE
ROBER" MOORE
C.HARLI~ B. ZWALLY
nTER Jr, RESSLER
LJ:,.OYD Jlt PERSlfl\I
C:fWG A. STONE
JAMES A. DLSB
D;\NlEL L SULLIVAN
StEVEN D. SNYDER
JIFlI'REY A. ERNICO
KATHRYN L. SIMl'SON
P. DANIEL ALTLAND
ANDREW H. DOWUNG
MICHAEL D. REED
PAULAJ.LEJCBT
GARY J.IIEIM
DAVID A. FITzsIMONS
GUVP.BENEVENTANO
THOMAS F. SMIDA
JOHN F. Y ANINEK*
3401 NORTH FRONT STREET
P.O. BOX: 5950
HARRiSBURG. PA 17ll0.0950
TElLlIIPHONE
('117> 282-5000
FAX
(717) 236-].8].6
VICKY ANNTmMMER
TIMOTHY A. HOY
KATHLEEN DOYLE Y ANINEK
JAMES M. STRONG
JENNIFER A. VANKANICR
RANDALL-G. HURST*'
MARKD.1lJpp
RONALD 1... FINCK
SCOn C. SEUFERT
011' COUNSEL
JAMES W. EVANS
IRS NO.
23-1985005
http://www.mette.com
*]dARYLAND BAR
January 29, 2003
Robin Marzella, Esquire
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
RE: Barbara and James Struoe Y. Georae E. Edwards. M.D. and
Family Physician Associates. Inc.
Cumberland County; No. 2000-2020
Dear Attorney Marzella:
We are interested in securing selected medical and mental health records as
well as employment records regarding Mrs. Strupe. To that end, enclosed please find a.
Notice of Intent to Subpoena records from Harrisburg Hospital, Patricia A. Reddy, M.D.,
Sharon R. Frankel, M.D., Abel Temps and Protection Service, Inc.
If we do not receive a response to the Notice within the requisite time period,
these subpoenas will be served.
In addition, I have enclosed authorizations for the rei ease of mental health.
records directed to Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center; Holy Spirit
Hospital Outpatient Mental Health, J. K. Moola, M.D., David G. Petkash,.M.D.,
Cumberland/Perry Mental Health & Mental Retardation, The Stevens Mental Health
Center, Crisis North, Carlisle Crisis c/o The Stevens Mental Health Center and Dennis
Graybill. An authorization for the release of employment records directed to IBM
Corporation is also enclosed.
Please have Mrs. Strupe sign, date and have witnessed each Authorization.
These fully executed Authorizations should be returned to my attention so that they can
be forwarded to the appropriate health care practitioner or employer.
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January 29, 2003
Page 2
Thank you in advance for your assistance in facilitating a prompt return of these
fully executed Authorizations.
Sincerely,
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ANDREW H. DOWLING
Ipml
Enclosures
cc: Peter J. Curry, Esquire (w/encIOsUres) .
George' E. Edwards (w/out enclosures)
316567
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METTE. EVANS &: WOODSIDE
APROnlElSIONAL OO~N
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
filE COpy
ANDREW H. DOWLING, ESQ. *
8401 NORTH FRONT STREET
':P.O. BOX 5950
'R' A. 'go'J;OTR.BURG. PA 11711.0-0950
DIREct DIAL:
(711) 231.0288
IRS NO.
18-1985005
fttCerttfied Civil Trial
Athocote by the National
B()(lrc/ ofTrJo./ Advocacy
]g..MAIL ADnlWlS
Ahdo.,,-ling@mette.eom
,TJlILEPBONBI
('TJ.7) 282-0000
F.AX
(71.7) 286-1816
http://www.mette.oom
March 4, 2003
RobinJ. Marzella, Esquire
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Re: Edwards:Strupe
C1RimRnt: Barbara Strupe
Cumberland County: Civil 00-2020
Dear Ms. Marzella:
By letter dated January 29, 2003 I sent you a number of authorizations
requesting your client's signature and return of the authorizations. These r~quests
Were referenced in paragraph 3 of the January 29,2003 letter, a copy of which is:
enclosed. You have had these authorizations for a month. Please return the signed
authorizations.
Very truly yours,
cc: George E. Edwards, M.D.
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
~--=-
ANDREW H. DOWLING
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
AND NOW, this d f" UL day of April, 2003, I hereby certify that I am serving a
copy of the foregoing document upon the person(s) and in the manner indicated below,
which service satisfies the requirements of the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure,
by depositing a copy of the same in the United States Mail, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,
with first-class postage prepaid, as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer
305 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
and
Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Robin Marzella & Associates
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Respectfully submitted,
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
DATED: ;t ~p (J
324315 /;2. !o-::;
BY:~~~
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
Supreme Court I.D. #39692
3401 North Front Street
P.O. Box 5950
Harrisburg, PA 17110-0950
(717)232-5000
Attorneys for Defendant,
George E. Edwards, M.D.
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APR 2 9 Z003 ~
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVil TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMilY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this
day of
, 2003, upon consideration of the
Defendant's Motion to Compel;
IT IS THEREBY ORDERED AND DECREED that Plaintiff be directed to sign
authorizations as provided to by counsel for Defendant, Edwards for the following
health care facilities:
1. Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center
2. Holy Spirit Hospital Out Patient Mental Health
3. J. K. Moola, M.D.
4. David G. Petkash, M.D.
5. Cumberland/Perry Mental Health and Mental
Retardation
6. Stevens Mental Health Center
7. Crisis North
8. Carlisle Crisis, c/o Stevens Mental Health Center
9. Dennis Graybill; and
10. Employment records of IBM
By the Court:
J.
f~"," -.
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APR 2 9 2003 ~
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this
day of
, 2003, upon consideration of the
Defendant's Motion to Compel;
IT IS THEREBY ORDERED AND DECREED that Plaintiff be directed to sign
authorizations as provided to by counsel for Defendant, Edwards for the fOllowing
health care facilities:
1. Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center
2. Holy Spirit Hospital Out Patient Mental Health
3. J. K. Moola, M.D.
4. David G. Petkash, M.D.
5. Cumberland/Perry Mental Health and Mental
Retardation
6. Stevens Mental Health Center
7. Crisis North
8. Carlisle Crisis, c/o Stevens Mental Health Center
9. Dennis Graybill; and
10. Employment records of IBM
By the Court:
J.
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APR 2 9 Z003 ~
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this
day of
, 2003, upon consideration of the
Defendant's Motion to Compel;
IT IS THEREBY ORDERED AND DECREED that Plaintiff be directed to sign
authorizations as provided to by counsel for Defendant, Edwards for the following
health care facilities:
1. Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center
2. Holy Spirit Hospital Out Patient Mental Health
3. J. K. Moola, M.D.
4. David G. Petkash, M.D.
5. Cumberland/Perry Mental Health and Mental
Retardation
6. Stevens Mental Health Center
7. Crisis North
8. Carlisle Crisis, c/o Stevens Mental Health Center
9. Dennis Graybill; and
10. Employment records of IBM
By the Court:
J.
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APR 2 9 2003 V
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE. JR..
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this
day of
, 2003. upon consideration of the
Defendant's Motion to Compel;
IT IS THEREBY ORDERED AND DECREED that Plaintiff be directed to sign
authorizations as provided to by counsel for Defendant, Edwards for the following
health care facilities:
1. Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center
2. Holy Spirit Hospital Out Patient Mental Health
3. J. K. Moola. M.D.
4. David G. Petkash. M.D.
5. Cumberland/Perry Mental Health and Mental
Retardation
6. Stevens Mental Health Center
7. Crisis North
8. Carlisle Crisis. clo Stevens Mental Health Center
9. Dennis Graybill; and
10. Employment records of IBM
By the Court:
J.
'!Wi.".
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APR 2 9 Z003 r
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR.,
HUSBAND AND WIFE
Plaintiffs
: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
: CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
: NO. 2000-2020 CIVIL TERM
vs
GEORGE E. EDWARDS. M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES,
INC.
Defendants
: JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ORDER OF COURT
AND NOW, this
day of
, 2003, upon consideration of the
Defendant's Motion to Compel;
IT IS THEREBY ORDERED AND DECREED that Plaintiff be directed to sign
authorizations as provided to by counsel for Defendant, Edwards for the following
health care facilities:
1. Holy Spirit Hospital Community Mental Health Center
2. Holy Spirit Hospital Out Patient Mental Health
3. J. K. Moola, M.D.
4. David G. Petkash, M.D.
5. Cumberland/Perry Mental Health and Mental
Retardation
6. Stevens Mental Health Center
7. Crisis North
8. Carlisle Crisis, c/o Stevens Mental Health Center
9. Dennis Graybill; and
10. Employment records of IBM
By the Court:
J.
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BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband
and wife,
Plaintiffs
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
vs.
00-2020 CIVIL
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D.,
and FAMILY PHYSICIAN
ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendant
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
IN RE: MOTION FOR PROTECTIVE ORDER OF THE
BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND
ORDER
AND NOW, this
5S day of June, 2003, it is ordered that the Borough of New
Cumberland shall release the requested discovery sought by Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire, in
accordance with the subpoena dated January 30, 2003, subject to reasonable copying charges
incurred by the Borough of New Cumberland. The Borough of New Cumberland, its agents and
employees shall be held harmless from any liability associated with producing the documents
requested and all documents obtained by such subpoena shall only be used by defendants and
plaintiffs for purposes of the above-referenced litigation without further leave of court.
The material sought in the subject subpoena shall be released not less than forty-five (45)
days from the date of this order. Counsel for the plaintiffs is granted leave, not more than thirty
(30) days from the date of this order, to review the material proposed to be released by the
Borough Police Department and, within ten (10) days of such review, may lodge with the court,
for its immediate action, a motion to quash all or part of the subpoena which is the subject matter
of this order. In the event that counsel for the plaintiffs fails to contact the New Cumberland
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Borough Solicitor to arrange for the aforementioned review of the records within thirty (30) days
hereof, the plaintiffs shall be deemed to have waived their right to conduct a review and the
Borough shall release said information after forty-five (45) days as above ordered.
BY THE COURT,
t.~in J. Marzella, Esquire
For the Plaintiffs
.~drew H. Dowling, Esquire
Peter 1. Curry, Esquire
For the Defendants
l~drew C. Sheely, Esquire
For the Borough of New Cumberland
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R. J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES,P.C.
BY: Robin J. Marzella, Esquire
Pennsylvania Snpreme Conrt I.D. No. 66856
3513 North Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Telephone: (717) 234-7828
Facsimile: (717) 234-6883
Attorneys for Plaintiffs,
Barbara O. Strope and
James G. Strope, Jr.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BARBARA O. STRUPE and
JAMES G. STRUPE, JR., husband and wife,
Plaintiffs
: DOCKET NO. 00-2020 Civil
v.
GEORGE E. EDWARDS, M.D. and
FAMILY PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATES, INC.,
Defendants
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE TO SETILE AND DISCONTINUE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please mark Cumberland County Civil Action 00-2020 SETILED and
DISCONTINUED.
Respectfully submitted,
R. J. Marzella & Associates, P.C.
.....------------
Dated:J)btL.
t
ella, ire
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Attorney en lfication No. 66856
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CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Tammy McNamee, hereby certify that true and correct copies of the foregoing
document was served upon all counsel of record this 10th day of March, 2006, by
depositing said copy in the United States Mail at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, postage
prepaid, first class delivery, and addressed as follows:
Peter J. Curry, Esquire
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
305 North Front Street
Sixth Floor
Post Office Box 999
Harrisburg, P A 17108
Counsel for Family Physician Associates, Inc.
Andrew H. Dowling, Esquire
METTE, EVANS & WOODSIDE
3401 North Front Street
Post Office Box 5950
Harrisburg, P A 17110-0950
Counsel for George E. Edwards, MD.
R.J. MARZELLA & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
By:
Tammy McNamee
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