Santa Fe pediatrician detained for alleged sexual abuse

A 40‑year‑old pediatrician, identified as Esteban A., was arrested in Santa Fe, Argentina, after a 26‑year‑old mother, Jemima Benvenutti, reported that he lifted her shirt and placed his hands under her bra while examining her lungs during a July 20 visit to the private Sanatorio Sagrado Corazón. The allegation, made public on social media, triggered messages from other individuals claiming similar past misconduct by the doctor.

The investigation was led by the Policía de Investigaciones (PDI) through its Area of Investigation of Gender Violence, Sexual and Family. Acting on an order from prosecutor Viviana Galiano, officers detained the pediatrician at his residence on Pío Pandolfo 8900 in the city's north zone. The public prosecutor has requested his capture, and a formal indictment hearing is planned. The hospital has confirmed the doctor will no longer work there and will notify other facilities where he has practiced.

Reports indicate the pediatrician may have prior complaints, including allegations from an ex‑girlfriend involving a minor, suggesting a pattern of behavior that is now under judicial scrutiny.