State Revokes License of Psychologist Daniel Davenport for Sexual Relationship with 17-Year-Old

October 3, 2020

The New Jersey State Board of Psychological Examiners has revoked the license of a Sewell psychologist accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old patient.

Daniel Davenport also must pay civil penalties of $45,000 and must reimburse the state's $55,000 expense of investigating and prosecuting his case, the state Attorney General's Office said in announcing the revocation Thursday.

Davenport, who had a private practice, "violated multiple rules and regulations governing the practice of psychology," the agency said in a statement.

It alleged Davenport also misled the state Board of Psychological Examiners "about both the nature and the length of his relationship with the patient."

Davenport, 53, allegedly began the relationship with a girl who was 17 years old, the statement said.

It said the relationship continued for more than a year.

The board found Davenport's conduct and its lasting impact on the victim constituted gross negligence and professional misconduct, according to the statement.

It said Davenport's "failed attempts" to thwart a board investigation "were significant aggravating factors that ultimately demonstrated Davenport lacks the good moral character required for licensure."

The board's decision upheld a ruling by an administrative law judge.

The statement noted an ongoing review is underway into how New Jersey's 51 professional boards are addressing allegations of sexual misconduct.

Patients who believe they've been treated inappropriately by a licensed health care professional can file a complaint at the website of the state Division of Consumer Affairs or by calling 973-504-6200 to request a complaint form.