Retired doctor to face rape, other charges

A retired Manayunk physician will face trial on rape and related charges in an alleged assault on a 16-year-old girl, one of a group of teens who police say the doctor invited to parties at his house where alcohol and drugs were available.

Tawfik Nakishbendi, 61, was held for trial by Senior Common Pleas Court Judge Sheldon C. Jelin following a preliminary hearing Friday in Family Court. Assistant District Attorney Erin O'Brien said Nakishbendi was held on 14 of the 17 charges on which he was arrested April 22; counts of aggravated and simple assault and terroristic threats were dismissed.

Police said they arrested Nakishbendi after an anonymous tipster alleged he was throwing parties for neighborhood teens and having sex with some. The investigation led to the 16-year-old's allegedly being raped by Nakishbendi. Although Nakishbendi, a native of Turkey, advertised himself as a medical doctor, O'Brien said she has not been able to confirm he had a medical license. Defense attorney Daniel P. McElhatton could not be reached for comment.    - Joseph A. Slobodzian