Reality TV doctor Grant Robicheaux has dismissed sex charges

NEWPORT BEACH, California –

A California judge has dismissed the sexual charges against a reality TV show doctor and his girlfriend who were accused of drugging and raping women in a case that drew international attention.

Court records show that charges of assault with intent to commit a sex offense were dismissed Friday against Dr. Grant Robicheaux, a surgeon who previously appeared on a Bravo TV show called “Online Dating Rituals of the American Male,” and girlfriend Cerissa Riley.

The decision came after a preliminary hearing before Superior Court Judge Michael Leversen found there was not enough evidence on the sex charges to proceed with a trial, the Orange County Register reported.

The pair also face drug charges and are due to appear in court on July 19. Robicheaux is also charged with possession of an assault weapon. Rather, they pleaded not guilty.

The Attorney General’s Office, which has been prosecuting the case, said the agency is reviewing the decision.

The couple’s lawyers did not immediately comment on the decision, a spokesman said.

The case attracted international attention in 2018 when Robicheaux and Riley were charged in connection with up to seven victims who authorities said had been drugged and sexually assaulted at the couple’s home in the posh community of Newport Beach when they were not were able to resist.

The case was also involved in a contentious political battle between Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer and his predecessor Tony Rackauckas, who accused Spitzer of mishandling the case and using it to attract publicity.

After winning the election and taking office, Spitzer attempted to dismiss charges against the couple, citing insufficient evidence. The case was turned over to the Attorney General’s Office, which later reduced the charges for prosecution.