Local Doctor Sentenced To 60 Days In Jail

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A local doctor convicted of molesting some of his patients was back in court Thursday for his sentencing hearing.

Dr. Thomas Tyma was sentenced this morning to 60 days in jail, one year of house arrest and six years of probation.

The Wexford rheumatologist was convicted back in March of 17 counts of indecent assault.

He faced sentencing Thursday morning in Common Pleas Judge Donna Jo McDaniel's court.

Before he was sentenced, Tyma listened to testimony from several of the alleged victims.

"By having these women come forward today and in this last year, definitely, justice has prevailed. This is a great day for me because today's my birthday," one of the alleged victims said after the court proceedings. "This is about the best gift that you could get, for that feeling of self-satisfaction that - no you're not crazy, something did occur."

"I'm sure there are other women out there that couldn't be there today," added another of the alleged victims. "I'm sure he's done this many, many, many times. I did plead to the judge, put this man in jail. Just because he's wears a white coat doesn't make him a god."

Tyma didn't speak during his sentencing. He was taken from the courtroom in handcuffs, and now his attorney says they are considering an appeal.

Investigators with Northern Regional Police said the assaults happened at Tyma's office at the Allegheny North Arthritis Center in Pine Township between 2009 and 2011.

RELATED LINKS:
Local Doctor Charged With Indecent Assault (1/25/11)
North Hills Doctor To Stand Trial (2/11/11)