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PSYCHOLOGIST ORDERED NOT TO PRACTICE DUE TO FELONY COUNTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2016

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CONTACT:
Sandra Monterrubio, (916) 574-7720

Southland man is prohibited from practicing as a condition of bail

SACRAMENTO – The California Board of Psychology moved to protect the citizens of California last week by exercising its right to obtain an order in criminal court, against psychologist Michael Dane Ward, preventing him from practicing psychology during the pendency of his criminal case.

Ward a psychologist with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, was criminally charged with multiple felony counts of sexually molesting a young boy and girl this spring. The girl was 10 and the boy was nine when the alleged incidents occurred between August 2014 and March 31, 2016.

In the motion set forth by the board, the board imparted “Allowing Defendant to continue to practice as a psychologist would permit him to practice in a setting in which his conduct could place patients at risk. One meaningful way to protect the public during the pendency of these criminal proceedings is to prohibit him from the continued practice of psychology.”

The board will take steps to discipline Mr. Ward’s license and further restrict his ability to practice psychology after further investigation or action on the criminal matter.

Currently, Mr. Ward is incarcerated at the Los Angeles Men’s Central Jail with a $2 million bond. His next court date is set for July 26 and if convicted, faces up to life in state prison.

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ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA BOARD OF PSYCHOLOGY: The Board of Psychology’s mission is to advance quality psychological services for Californians by ensuring ethical and legal practice and supporting the evolution of the profession. For information on how to file a complaint, or for information about the Board of Psychology, visit us at www.psychology.ca.gov

ABOUT DCA: The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) promotes and protects the interests of California consumers while ensuring a competent and fair marketplace. DCA helps consumers learn how to protect themselves from unscrupulous and unqualified individuals. The department also protects professionals (licensees) from unfair competition by unlicensed practitioners. Consumers can file complaints against licensees by contacting DCA at (800) 952-5210. Consumers can also file a complaint online at www.dca.ca.gov.