Scandal Rocks Novokuznetsk: Maternity Hospital Chief Arrested, Faces 7 Years
Novokuznetsk Maternity Hospital Scandal: Chief Doctor Arrested
One of the most shocking medical scandals in recent years is unfolding in Novokuznetsk. Authorities have arrested Vitaly Kheraskov, the chief physician of City Hospital No. 1. Tragically, nine newborns died in this hospital’s maternity ward in early January.
The Arrest and Charges
The hospital chief faces up to seven years in prison. His arrest follows a large-scale investigation triggered by the series of tragedies. Alongside Kheraskov, the head of the neonatal intensive care unit was also detained. According to reports, both individuals face charges of criminal negligence resulting in severe consequences and causing the death of two or more persons due to improper performance of professional duties. The maximum penalty for these charges combined is up to seven years in prison.
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators are currently determining who made the critical decisions and what systemic violations may have led to the tragic outcome. Official reports state that nine infants died in the Novokuznetsk maternity ward between January 4 and January 12. Current investigative theories point to intrauterine infections and critically low birth weights. Several babies remain in intensive care, with doctors continuing to fight for their lives.
Conditions and Complaints
Even before the arrests, women who gave birth at this hospital repeatedly complained about the staff’s rudeness, indifference, and chaotic organization. Sources reveal that during the New Year holidays, the maternity ward faced a severe shortage of qualified staff. Sanitary workers often performed the duties of nurses, and one of them worked shifts despite showing symptoms of acute respiratory viral infection. These circumstances are now being thoroughly examined by investigators, as they could have directly influenced the spread of infections and the condition of the newborns.
Hospital’s Troubled Reputation
Among local residents, Hospital No. 1 has long had a troubling reputation. Women admit to taking precautions—making arrangements, paying extra, and seeking familiar doctors to minimize risks. According to locals, complications and deaths have occurred here before, but the statistics were often resolved without widespread publicity. The January tragedy became a turning point, making it impossible to hide the truth any longer.
