Alabama dentist reportedly sentenced to 180 years in prison for raping, sodomizing & abusing his staff members & patients

A former dentist in Alabama, Joseph Cox, has been sentenced to 180 years in prison for sexually abusing numerous staff members and patients, according to reports.

The 44-year-old Cox, who ran Gadsden Dental in Gadsden, Alabama, was found guilty in January 2024 on charges including rape, sodomy, and sexual abuse. The verdict followed a week-long trial where evidence revealed a pattern of abuse over a period spanning from June 2020 to April 2021.

Prosecutors detailed how Cox exploited his position of trust, preying on both employees and patients. Reports indicate some of the abuse occurred during dental procedures, further violating the patients’ sense of security.

A high employee turnover rate at Gadsden Dental during the time frame ultimately sparked an investigation. The Gadsden Police Department’s probe led to Cox’s arrest in April 2021.

During sentencing, Circuit Judge George Day condemned Cox’s actions, stating he treated his practice like “his own personal playground” with a complete disregard for the women who entered his office seeking dental care.

The lengthy sentence reflects the severity of the crimes. Judge Day ordered the sentences for each charge to run consecutively, ensuring Cox will spend a significant portion of his life behind bars.