Houston Anesthesiologist Arrested on Child Sex Abuse, Assault Charges; License Suspended

A 14-year-old girl told investigators that Dr. Dwayne Dunbar bought her a drink that made her drowsy, and when she woke up, she "felt sexual intercourse." That account, contained in charging documents, sits at the center of a case that has ended the medical career of a pain medicine physician who practiced in the Greater Houston area for eight years.

Dunbar, 36, of Webster, was arrested July 31 by the Deer Park Police Department on charges of sexual assault of a child, possession of child sexual abuse material, and online solicitation of a minor. He posted a $65,000 bond and was released from Harris County Jail. At his first court appearance, a judge confirmed the alleged victim was 14 and granted a prosecutor's request for an emergency protection order.

Charging documents allege Dunbar contacted the girl on Instagram. She told investigators she believed he was 19 to 20 years old. Investigators said Dunbar used multiple online dating apps to identify underage girls, befriend them, and attempt to start relationships, and Deer Park police said they are concerned there may be additional victims beyond the one named in current charges.

The Texas Medical Board moved quickly after the arrest. On Aug. 13, a TMB disciplinary panel temporarily suspended Dunbar's Texas medical license without notice, effective immediately, citing that he poses a continuing threat to public welfare. "A temporary suspension hearing with notice will be held as soon as practicable with 10 days' notice to Dr. Dunbar, unless the hearing is specifically waived by Dr. Dunbar," the board said in its statement.

Dunbar is identified in records as both a pain medicine physician and an anesthesiologist who practices at Houston Physicians Hospital, according to U.S. News. The DPPD investigation into his conduct began in February, more than five months before his arrest.

Anyone with information about Dunbar or who believes they may be a victim is asked to contact Lt. Brown at the Deer Park Police Department at 281-930-2142 or crimetips@deerparktx.org. No criminal trial date has been announced, and no conviction has been entered; all charges remain allegations at this stage.