SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY– On August 24, 2022, the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office announce it has filed nine felony sexual abuse charges against Christopher Lee Smart, 63, of Redlands. During the time of the alleged sexual abuse, Smart was employed at Patton State Hospital as a licensed clinical social worker. Patton State Hospital provides treatment to forensically and civilly committed patients. Multiple patients of Patton State Hospital have been identified as victims.
The following charges have been filed against defendant Smart;
- Count 1- PC 261(a)(1) – Rape of a Person Incapable of Giving Consent
- Count 2 – PC 261(a)(1) – Rape of a Person Incapable of Giving Consent
- Count 3 – PC 287(g) – Oral Copulation of an Incompetent Person
- Count 4 – PC 261(a)(1) – Rape of a Person Incapable of Giving Consent
- Count 5 – PC 287(g) – Oral Copulation of an Incompetent Person
- Count 6 – PC 289(b) – Sexual Penetration of an Incompetent Person
- Count 7- PC 261(a)(1) – Rape of a Person Incapable of Giving Consent
- Count 8 – PC 243.4(b) – Sexual Battery on Institutionalized Victim
- Count 9 – PC 261(a)(1) – Rape of a Person Incapable of Giving Consent
Smart was arrested after an extensive investigation conducted by the Department of State Hospitals Office of Protective Services.
“The state employs hospital police officers and investigators to protect patients, employees, visitors and the surrounding community,” said California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) President Alan Barcelona. “It is disturbing to learn that a state employee is suspected of these crimes but it should in no way reflect on the good and trustworthy work performed by the rest of the honest and hardworking professionals who at Patton, or any other state hospital.”
Smart’s next hearing date is scheduled for September 2, 2022.
