Two more children accuse La Crosse doctor of sexual assault

Two more children have come forward with allegations that a La Crosse doctor molested them in the past two years, adding to the allegation that led to his arrest last week.

Dr. Joseph Poterucha has been arrested on a first-degree child sexual assault charge. He is a pediatrician for Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse.

Dr. Joseph T. Poterucha, 40, a pediatrician and Intensive Care Unit doctor at Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse, appeared in La Crosse County Circuit Court virtually on Wednesday in front of Judge Gloria Doyle. He faces three charges of first-degree child sexual assault of a child under age 13.

He posted a $25,000 cash bond on Saturday and is staying in Rochester.

Poterucha does not yet have an attorney and was rescheduled for an initial appearance on the new charges on Nov. 3.

Mayo Clinic released a statement last week saying the allegations are not connected to his treatment of patients.

He was placed on leave from Mayo Clinic after the hospital learned of his arrest.

Poterucha’s wife filed for divorce Wednesday, according to court records.

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