North Carolina eye center's owner files for bankruptcy with up to $10M debt amid sexual harassment allegations: 4 things to know

Laura Dyrda -

After 30 years practicing in Charlotte, N.C., the former physician owner of Christenbury Eye Center filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, according to the Charlotte Observer.

Here are four things to know:

1. Jonathan Christenbury was among the pioneers to introduce Lasik eye surgery to the Charlotte area, but he gave up his medical license last year due to a positive cocaine test, according to the report. He also faced multiple sexual harassment complaints from employees.

2. Mr. Christenbury closed his practice last November and filed for personal bankruptcy two months later. He now reports up to $10 million in debt with around $50,000 in assets, and the Christenbury Eye Center checking account has $83.27 in it.

3. In addition to the sexual harassment claims, which Mr. Christenbury denies, former employees allege Mr. Christenbury withheld bonuses and delivered improper pay in a pending lawsuit.

4. Earlier this month, Mr. Christenbury argued in court that the N.C. Medical Board no longer should have investigation or discipline authority after he surrendered his license.

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