Bill would make poor sanitary practices a crime

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - Dayton congressman Mike Turner announced a new bill that would make unsanitary dental practices a crime.

The recent accusations at the Dayton VA Center prompted Turner's bill.

Officials say VA dentist, Dwight Pemberton, did not change gloves or sterilize equipment properly between patients, exposing them to the risk of infection.

Rep. Turner says he is upset the dentist was allowed to retire with benefits.

His bill would make similar crimes more like an assault charge, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

"Once the VA has the prospect of criminal prosecution as a real possibility, their administrative processes will handle these issues differently and respond more favorable," said Turner.

Nearly all of the 535 veterans thought to be at risk locally have been tested. Three were found to have hepatitis. Whether they contracted it at the clinic is unknown.