Crime & Safety
Bassett's Dental License Suspended
Salem doctor accused of simple assault will have a hearing next month.
The dental license for Salem dentist John B. Bassett has been suspended by the the N.H. Board of Dental Examiners in the wake of .
According to state Attorney General Michael Delaney, the suspension of Bassett's practice at 32 Stiles Road went into effect Aug. 23.
Bassett, 63, of Windham, was arrested Aug. 13 for simple assault against a juvenile patient. It has been alleged by Salem Police Bassett struck a child in the back, leaving a mark.
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Police said the incident took place in May when an 8-year-old boy was touching some glass jars on a counter that held dentistry equipment during a follow-up appointment at Bassett's office.
Police said the boy opened the lid to one of the jars and started pulling out gauze.
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According to the child's mother, Bassett yelled, "We don't do that here!" and slapped the boy on the back with an open hand.
A follow-up investigation took place and an arrest warrant was eventually issued.
Delaney said the Board of Dental Examiners issued an Order of Emergency Suspension and gave notice last week Bassett will have a hearing Sept. 10. "for the purpose of determining whether Dr. Bassett's license will remain suspended during the course of the on-going investigation."
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