Vancouver Physician Faces Multiple Sexual Assault Charges Involving Teen Patients
A British Columbia doctor practicing in Vancouver has been formally charged with the sexual assault of two teenage patients following an extensive police investigation spanning nearly three years. The disturbing allegations involve incidents at medical clinics in both Vancouver's Chinatown district and Burnaby, raising serious concerns about patient safety and professional conduct within the healthcare system.
Charges Stem from Incidents Dating Back to 2015
Vancouver police announced on Tuesday that Dr. Herman Hau Man Lee, 54, faces multiple criminal charges related to sexual offences against minors. The investigation began in March 2023 when authorities became aware of allegations involving a 17-year-old patient who reported being sexually assaulted by a physician during visits to a Chinatown medical clinic over several years.
During their investigation, detectives discovered that the same doctor had previously practiced at a Burnaby clinic, where a 14-year-old girl had also allegedly been sexually assaulted. This discovery expanded the scope of the investigation and revealed a pattern of alleged misconduct spanning multiple locations and years.
Specific Charges and Bail Conditions
In November 2025, prosecutors filed formal charges against Lee including:
- One count of sexual assault and one count of sexual interference related to alleged offences in Burnaby in December 2015
- One count of sexual assault, one count of sexual interference, and one count of sexual exploitation for alleged offences in Vancouver between May 2018 and December 2022
Despite these serious charges, Lee has been released on bail and continues to practice medicine. However, the court has imposed strict conditions on his medical license, specifically prohibiting him from treating any patient under the age of 16 without another adult present during examinations and consultations.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Appeal
Vancouver police investigators are now actively seeking additional information from the public and potential victims. Authorities believe there may be other individuals who had concerning experiences with Dr. Lee but have not yet come forward to report them.
"It is always a personal decision for anyone to come forward and report a sexual assault. We understand, for some, that decision may take time," stated VPD Supt. Dale Weidman of the investigation division. "We want to assure everyone that if you do come forward, you will be met with care and compassion, and you will receive trauma-informed support throughout the investigative process."
Professional Standing and Public Safety Concerns
A search of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia registry confirms that Herman Lee remains listed as a practicing physician operating from the Keefer Medical Clinic at 118 Keefer Street in Vancouver. This situation highlights the complex balance between maintaining professional standing during legal proceedings while ensuring public safety.
The case has prompted renewed discussions about patient protection measures within medical settings, particularly regarding vulnerable populations such as teenagers seeking healthcare services. The allegations span nearly a decade, suggesting potential systemic issues in oversight and reporting mechanisms within medical facilities.
Police are urging anyone who may have received treatment from Dr. Lee and has not yet spoken with investigators to contact the Vancouver Police Department's specialized sex crimes unit directly at 604-717-0602. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full scope of the alleged misconduct and ensure all potential victims receive appropriate support and justice.
