The assaults involved inappropriate touching and unnecessary internal examinations, which Cox disguised as routine medical procedures, exploiting his role as a trusted family doctor.

A medical expert confirmed that Cox's actions lacked any medical justification, indicating they were driven by sexual motives.

The strength and consistency of the victims' testimonies were crucial in securing Cox's conviction, despite the absence of witnesses to the assaults.

Dr. Stephen Cox, a 65-year-old GP from Shropshire, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for sexually assaulting seven female patients over a nine-year period.

Cox was found guilty of 12 counts of indecent assault committed between 1988 and 1997 during routine medical examinations at his surgery in Bracknell, Berkshire.

Detective Constable Sara Di Giorgio emphasized that Cox betrayed the trust of his patients, who sought medical help during vulnerable times.

Cox denied the allegations, suggesting misunderstandings or dishonesty on the part of the victims.

Victims only came forward after a police investigation was initiated, as the incidents had not been reported at the time they occurred.

The investigation was complicated by the lack of computerized healthcare records, relying instead on handwritten GP notes from the time of the offences.

The Crown Prosecution Service expressed gratitude to the victims for their courage in coming forward and hoped the sentence would provide them with a sense of closure.

Thames Valley Police have raised concerns that there may be additional victims of Cox's abuse who have not yet come forward.

Judge Sarah Campbell described Cox as a 'sexual predator' who violated the trust placed in him by his patients and the medical profession.