Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs have announced that the New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners has revoked the license of a physical therapist from North Jersey. The decision follows admissions by Danny O. Steffens, who practiced in Bergen County, regarding inappropriate conduct with patients.

Steffens agreed to permanently surrender his license after complaints were filed by two female patients. He admitted to engaging in sexual relations with one patient and allegedly made inappropriate remarks to another.

"Protecting patients from sexual exploitation at the hands of healthcare professionals is a commitment we take seriously," stated Attorney General Platkin. "The action announced today demonstrates our continued success in working with our professional licensing boards to investigate and remove sexual predators from our professional ranks."

Cari Fais, Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs, added, "Any sexual activity between a healthcare practitioner and a patient is an egregious exploitation of trust that violates the most basic rules of professional conduct and can cause long-lasting harm to the patient."

The investigation revealed that Steffens had multiple sexual encounters with one patient while treating her at a facility in New Milford, NJ. He also sent her explicit text messages and photos. Additionally, he could not recall whether he made inappropriate comments to another patient treated at a facility in Fort Lee, NJ.

Under a Consent Order filed on December 4, 2024, Steffens' retirement from practice was deemed permanent revocation. He is barred from reapplying for his license in New Jersey.

The investigation was conducted by investigators within the Enforcement Bureau of the Division of Consumer Affairs. Deputy Attorney General Daniel Evan Leef Hewitt represented the state under Section Chief Doreen A. Hafner's supervision.

Patients suspecting inappropriate treatment by licensed healthcare professionals can file complaints online or contact the State Division of Consumer Affairs via phone.