Dakotas Surgeon Accused of Sexually Abusing Girl in Oregon

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A general surgeon from South Dakota who is now working in North Dakota is accused of sexually abusing a girl under 14 in Oregon over a two-year period starting in 2009.

The Daily Astorian reports that 46-year-old Robert J. Gustafson on Monday pleaded not guilty in Oregon's Clatsop County to 12 counts related to the alleged abuse.

Defense attorney Paul Hood said Gustafson plans to post bail and return to the West River Regional Medical Center in the North Dakota town of Hettinger. Hood said the hospital is holding Gustafson's job for him. The Associated Press requested comment from the hospital.

Gustafson is required to have no contact with children, unless it's necessary in his work.

Gustafson grew up in Brookings, South Dakota. He previously practiced in Spearfish.

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