In Colorado, the state medical board in 2000 found that Dr. Durand Jae Kahler had engaged in sexual acts with three patients. Nevertheless, it rejected a hearing panel's recommendation that it revoke his license, opting instead for suspension, treatment, and five years' probation.

Medical experts said he was unlikely to re-offend, and the board cited his remorse.

Then in 2012, he agreed to halt practice while the board investigated allegations he had repeatedly engaged in sex acts with a patient he was treating for anxiety and depression. The board then ordered him to permanently relinquish his license in 2013.

Kahler has not yet responded to a request for comment.