Disgraced Calgary neurologist who sexually assaulted 55 women sent back to prison

A disgraced Calgary doctor who sexually assaulted 55 women over his 30-year career was sent back to prison Tuesday.

Sheriffs escorted Keith Hoyte, 75, out of the courtroom after Justice Allan Fradsham sentenced the retired neurologist to a second three-year prison term. 

Hoyte was originally charged in 2018. He pleaded guilty to 28 counts of sexual assault and was sentenced in September 2020.

After serving two of the three years, Hoyte was released from prison.

Remorse 'not genuine'

News of the offences prompted more women to come forward, and in December 2022, Hoyte pleaded guilty to 27 more counts of sexual assault. 

Hoyte has always denied that he touched the patients for sexual gratification. 

"Dr. Hoyte's expressions of remorse and understanding are not genuine," said Fradsham in handing down his decision. 

"He has no real insight into his offending behaviour."

• Judge hears from victims of neurologist who sexually assaulted 55 patients

Hoyte's victims ranged in age from 16 to 46. All were groped and fondled by the doctor between 1983 and 2013, when he retired. 

A publication ban protects the identities of the victims.

1997 complaint 

The women were referred to Hoyte for a number of serious neurological conditions, including seizure disorders, stroke and multiple sclerosis. 

Hoyte instructed his victims to undress and put on a gown. He would then lower the victims' gowns and fondle their breasts and sometimes groin areas. 

In 1997, a patient complained to Alberta's College of Physicians and Surgeons about Hoyte's inappropriate touching during an exam.

Hoyte was warned by the professional body about inappropriate physical contact with his patients and he committed to changing his behaviour. 

Prosecutor Rose Greenwood said during her sentencing submissions that the warning should have served as a "shot across the bow" for the doctor.

Instead, he continued to sexually assault patients.