A dental surgeon in Australia has received a four-year ban from practicing after being found guilty of indecent conduct. Jacky Sum Wai Chan was suspended due to two separate incidents involving inappropriate photography of women in public spaces. The decision was made by the State Administrative Tribunal, which deemed his actions as professional misconduct.
The first incident occurred on December 28, 2023, at the Karrinyup Shopping Centre. Chan was observed attempting to record up a woman’s skirt while passing by. Just weeks later, on January 7, 2024, he entered a beachwear store at the Midland Gate Shopping Centre. In this case, he targeted a 16-year-old girl who was trying on bikinis. Chan entered the adjacent change room and attempted to film her by placing his phone on a pile of clothes, with the camera directed towards her cubicle. The teenager noticed the suspicious behavior and promptly reported the incident to the authorities.
Following the report, Chan was arrested ten days later, and police seized his phone. Investigators uncovered a large collection of images and videos of women taken without their consent in various locations, including shopping centres and gyms. Many of these images depicted women in states of undress or wearing tight clothing. Additionally, authorities found two applications on Chan’s phone designed to capture photos and videos discreetly, making it appear as if the device was turned off.
In light of these findings, Chan faced two counts of indecent acts in public. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to a 10-month intensive supervision order with specified treatment requirements. The tribunal noted that Chan has engaged in psychological counselling to address his behavior, with his psychologists reporting that he is currently assessed as having a low risk of re-offending.
His dental registration has been suspended since April 5, 2024, and he has not practiced since March 2024. In addition to the suspension, Chan has been ordered to pay $3,000 AUD towards the legal costs of the Dental Board of Australia.
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding professional ethics and the protection of individuals in vulnerable situations. For anyone needing support, the Sexual Assault Resource Centre is available at 1800 199 888.
