Doctor accused of trading items for sex acts from Macomb Co Jail inmates

(WJBK) - A doctor is accused of touching females inappropriately at Macomb Country Jail, even trading items from sex acts.

Dr. Steven Cogswell, 53, was arraigned on six counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct Friday, which is a 15-year felony. 

"He's been a medical doctors for an excess of 25 years," said Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham.

Wickersham says Cogswell had been working at the county jail's medical center and was employed by Correct Care Solutions, which is contracted to handle the medical care of inmates. Wickersham says during his 38 days on the job, Cogswell touched female inmates inappropriately.

Doctor accused of sex crimes with inmates at Macomb Co Jail

"One of the victims indicated that she performed a sexual act on the doctor for candy and tobacco," Wickersham said.

Wickersham says at least three officers had been performing their daily tasks when the sexual acts took place but the screen to the exam room had been closed, blocking their view.

"We received a note ... from one of the inmates referencing the complaint. During that investigation we discovered a third inmate that made the same allegation," Wickersham said.

Police say they know of three victims right now -- all women in their late 20s or early 30s from Sterling Heights, Port Huron and Roseville. As police fear their could be more victims out there, Cogswell has been fired from Correct Care Solutions. The company is reviewing its policies to ensure this doesn't happen again.

"We're going to make sure there's other people in those examination rooms during certain examinations," Wickersham said.

Prosecutors asked for a $250,000 cash bond and that Cogswell, a married father of three, wear a GPS tether if released.

"He's not a risk of flight whatsoever. He's not going anywhere," said defense attorney Steven Rabaut.

But this judge agreed with prosecutors. Cogswell is due back in court in two weeks.