Dentist must stand trial on three counts

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- A local dentist must stand trial on three counts of sexually battering two patients and an employee, a TulsaCounty judge ruled Thursday. <br><br>After listening to testimony from

Friday, April 7th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- A local dentist must stand trial on three counts of sexually battering two patients and an employee, a TulsaCounty judge ruled Thursday.

After listening to testimony from the three women, Special Judge Todd Singer ruled there was enough evidence to support a felony charge against Hassan Bijan Abdi, 41.

The charge carries a maximum sentence of five years per count, said Assistant District Attorney Paul Wilkening.

The two women who were patients each said they were administered nitrous oxide prior to being touched in an inappropriate manner while in a dental chair.

Abdi is free on bail and denies any wrongdoing.

The Oklahoma Board of Dentistry voted in January to revoke Abdi's license, but a stay granted while he appeals that decision allows him to continue to practice with certain restrictions.

During the appeal period, Abdi cannot use mind-altering drugs such as nitrous oxide in his practice and agreed to have an observer present while he treats female patients.