Towson psychiatrist Miguel Frontera's license to practice in Maryland has been permanently revoked after the state board that oversees doctors found that he had inappropriate contact with boys in his care.
The Maryland Board of Physicians found that the psychiatrist, licensed in the state since 1988, acted improperly in a dozen cases, all involving pre-teen boys, some of whom came forward after the investigation began late last year.
The board's order means that Frontera cannot practice in Maryland and other states will be notified of the ruling, said John T. Papavasiliou, deputy director of the Board of Physicians. He said the board has referred the matter to Baltimore County authorities for a possible criminal investigation.
The board had suspended Frontera's license in November for alleged improper conduct during physical exams with five boys ages 10 to 12 he was treating for behavioral issues between 2000 and 2009, according to board documents. The board's investigation began after Baltimore County police turned over two reports of possible misconduct.
Baltimore County police said at the time of Frontera's suspension that officials consulted with the county state's attorney's office and determined that the allegations did not rise to the level of criminal activity. Police could not provide information Tuesday on any possible further investigation.
"This is final, permanent and final," Papavasiliou said. "The board was emphatic in its decision and united, and it will not tolerate this sort of behavior from any practitioner."
Natalie Magdeburger, Frontera's attorney, said in a statement that the doctor "adamantly denies the allegations made against him."
She said he voluntarily took and passed three polygraph exams, but decided to sign the board's consent order that revoked his license because of the expense of defending himself.
"Dr. Frontera is thankful to the patients who came forward to support him and hopes that all involved find peace in this resolution," Magdeburger said.
Frontera worked for Clinical Associates on Fairmount Road in Towson, a large practice bought by Sinai Hospital in August. A spokeswoman for Sinai said the doctor is no longer an employee.