License suspension for Monmouth doctor accused of molesting teen

The Monmouth County pediatric surgeon accused of inappropriate contact with a 17-year-old patient undergoes temporary license suspension while his case proceeds, and pending further action by the New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners.

Dr. Saad Saad, 72, is faces a second-degree charge of child endangerment and a fourth-degree count of criminal sexual contact, for the alleged incident that New Jersey investigators say occurred during an office visit. He was indicted July 10, according to information from the office of New Jersey Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino.

Saad voluntarily underwent temporary suspension imposed by the Board. After the indictment, he was placed on immediate leave of absence form Meridian Pediatric Surgical Associates. He is not being detained until trial, but is ordered to have no contact with anyone under age 18, authorities said.

According to authorities, Saad's lawyer, Robert Honecker Jr., said that in the aftermath of the charges, he ceased his practices, which also included work at K.Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune.

Saad has permission to offer administrative guidance to Children's Hospital directors, but is barred from entering his clinics when patients might be present.

The State's case is being organized by Deputy Attorney General Alan Blankstein.

Charges are allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless, and until, found guilty in a court of law.