Pontiac Community Reels as New Charges Against Local Doctor Surface

Pontiac Residents Shocked by New Charges Against Local Doctor

In a harrowing development that has left many in Pontiac and the surrounding areas reeling, a 68-year-old sports doctor from Farmington Hills is dealing with a wave of new charges that accuse him of sexually abusing teenage boys and young men. Dr. Zvi Levran, who has been in the spotlight for troubling allegations that have surfaced over the past year, was already facing multiple charges, and now he’s looking at even more serious repercussions.

The Timeline of Allegations

It all began on September 30, when the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office charged Levran with child sexually abusive activity and possession of child sexually abusive material. These charges were related to an incident that reportedly took place between 2018 and 2019 in Farmington Hills. The allegations suggest that Levran captured explicit photos of a patient, who was a minor at the time, and sent them to himself.

Things took a more serious turn this past Monday when Levran was faced with additional charges, including aggravated child sexually abusive activity and aggravated possession of child sexually abusive material. This latest incident was said to have occurred in Novi in 2020, where he allegedly solicited explicit videos from another patient who was also a teenager. All told, Levran is now looking at a whopping 28 charges, marking a case that has shaken the community to its core.

The Impact on the Community

Prosecutor Karen McDonald expressed grave concerns, stating, “This individual used his position of trust to prey on vulnerable teenagers.” She praised the bravery of those who have come forward, calling it an act of immense strength and emphasizing that her office would work tirelessly to ensure justice is served. McDonald’s commitment to holding Levran accountable reflects the broader societal need to support victims of abuse and to uphold safety in medical and community settings.

Charges and Potential Consequences

Levran, who also has ties as a hockey team physician, now faces severe legal repercussions if found guilty. The possible sentences for his alleged crimes are alarming:

• Child sexually abusive activity: Up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine that could reach $100,000.
• Possession of child sexually abusive material: Up to four years in prison and/or a fine that could go up to $10,000.
• Aggravated child sexually abusive activity: Up to 25 years in prison and/or a fine up to $125,000.
• Aggravated possession of child sexually abusive material: Up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine as high as $50,000.

The Defense’s Stance

On the defense side, Levran’s attorney, Jonathan Jones, has acknowledged awareness of the new accusations, clarifying that they had anticipated the additional charges. He stated, “We knew there was an investigation, and we will deal with the charges.” However, without having reviewed all the evidence yet, Jones refrained from commenting on the specifics of the charges or their validity.

A Call for Support

In light of these unsettling events, McDonald made a poignant appeal to anyone who might be struggling with experiences of sexual abuse. She remarked, “You are not alone, it is not your fault, and help is available.” Those in need can seek confidential support, such as the national sexual assault hotline available at 800-656-4673, or find resources tailored specifically for male survivors of abuse at specialized organizations.

As Pontiac continues to grapple with the implications of these disturbing allegations, the community is left hoping that justice will be served and that any victims will find the courage and support to come forward.

Author: HERE Novi