Trial of oral surgeon accused of sexually assaulting unconscious patients continues

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The trial of an oral surgeon accused of sexually assaulting patients while they were unconscious continues for its fourth week in New Hanover County Court.

56-year-old Michael Lee Hasson is facing several sex crime charges against more than 20 patients aging from 14 to 64 years old.  

On Tuesday, the jury heard arguments from the defense. Defense attorney Tripp Watson questioned a WPD detective, claiming the detective didn’t interview some eyewitnesses to the alleged crimes.  

The defense also questioned the validity of some DNA evidence in the case. 

The prosecution, Assistant District Attorney Connie Jordan rebutted, noting that the DNA evidence shows a clear indication of male DNA on a female patient’s body and underwear. 

Arguments from the defense follow prosecution arguments two weeks ago, in which 18 alleged victims gave testimony against Hasson.

Hasson was arrested in 2019. The abuse allegedly took place between 2009 and 2018.